FOOD: Citrus Pick Team

Harvest citrus for families in need! Botanical Community Development Initiatives is in need of two teams of 2-4 people, each team being from the same household if you plan on driving to the groves together (to limit exposure to Covid-19) to pick citrus.

Each team will pick 2 times per month on a Tuesday morning. Please only sign up if you are able to commit to at least two months. By harvesting fruit, you are helping to provide citrus for a weekly Farm to Family Produce delivery to 200 families in Oceanside during the Covid-19 pandemic.

You will meet at Community Roots Farm to gather supplies, then drive to a citrus grove located in North County (the location will vary typically Oceanside/Bonsall/Fallbrook) to pick roughly 600 pounds of citrus which is the equivalent of about 24 reusable grocery bags full. After picking, you will transport the citrus and supplies back to Community Roots Farm. 

You will be trained at your first harvest on using the tools, harvest techniques, and when fruit is ripe. After that, you will be able to go on your own.

Project Requirements & Important Notes

• Attire: Closed-toe shoes are required. Wear clothing you don't mind getting dirty. 

• Bring: Sun protection (suncreen and/or hat) and a reusable water bottle

• Physical Requirements: Ability to walk on uneven terrain and pick citrus

• Waiver: All volunteers will need to complete Botanical Community Development Initiatives' volunteer waiver. 

• Note: All volunteers must be able to provide their own truck, SUV, van or other vehicle able to carry at least 24 grocery bags full of citrus. Or bring two cars.

About Botanical Community Development Initiatives

Botanical Community Development Initiatives (BCDI) is working to improve lives by connect plants, people, and community. Community Roots Farm is a project of BCDI and is 1-acre urban farm located in an Oceanside neighborhood and grows food with community, for community. The sustainably-grown produce is served in meals to children in local state-funded preschools that are located in low socioeconomic neighborhoods where access to fresh food is lacking.