What’s even better than picking apples, berries, or other produce amid the beauty of a Wisconsin autumn? Helping the less fortunate while doing so.

That’s the idea behind Picking Promises, an Eau Claire-based program now in its third year. The program – the brainchild of Eau Claire retiree Norm Joseph – encourages local groups and individuals to visit farms during the harvest season, to pick their fill of produce, and then to donate some of those delicious, farm-fresh goodies to charities that help those who don’t have enough to eat.

As Norm told Volume One in a 2022 article, “We like to give back to the community and feel grateful for what we have, too.”

Organizers explain that fall is a great time of the year to visit the Chippewa Valley’s farms and orchards, to pick and enjoy fresh produce, and to enjoy corn mazes, apple canons, and other fun family activities. Visiting farms also gives families the opportunity to learn about the challenges of farming, which range from extreme weather and labor shortages to the very short season in which produce is ripe.

Before you go to pick, Picking Promises suggests you contact a local farm (check here for a list) and a local pantry (here’s a list of those) first, so you can donate what you gathered ASAP. Pantries often have very little fresh produce to offer, so donations they receive are much appreciated.

Picking Promises also offers these tips:

• Take small, clean buckets for picking. Then transfer produce to larger clean cardboard boxes that were not used for chemicals or cleaning supplies.
• Confirm hours of operation where you’re donating fresh produce.
• Before donating, keep fresh produce in a cool place & take to a donation site as soon as possible.
• Ask the farmers if they need help weeding as you pick. Often times, farmers can't find enough help during the growing season and need as much support as possible.
• The growing season is very short. Many farms are only open a few days each week. Set monthly dates with families, friends, clubs, churches, schools, etc to get picking.

To learn more about the program and upcoming events, visit pickingpromises.com. You can also contact them at pickingpromises@gmail.com.