Hidden Harvest Joins EnviroCentre

We are delighted to announce that Hidden Harvest, a local Ottawa-based fruit rescue organization, is becoming a program of EnviroCentre! This exciting partnership will continue to advance environmental sustainability through our shared dedication to reducing food waste, promoting community well-being, and fostering a greener Ottawa.

Hidden Harvest volunteers pick and share fruit that would otherwise go to waste on public and private property. Tree owners can register their food trees for harvesting, and those keen to pick fruit can register as volunteers to join harvest events. Harvested fruit is split between a community food agency (such as a food bank, school, or shelter), the tree owner, and the volunteer pickers.

By providing the opportunity for people to access the edible fruit and nut trees that surround them, Hidden Harvest improves food sovereignty, reduces food waste, and enhances knowledge of local trees.

Our city boasts over 17,000 fruit and nut trees on city property alone, and Hidden Harvest has over 500 trees on private properties registered for harvesting. Since its start in 2012, Hidden Harvest has rescued over 100,000 pounds of fresh, local produce which has diverted about 18 tonnes of CO2e, and aligns seamlessly with out shared goal of creating a healthier, more resilient Ottawa!

Behind every successful sustainability initiative lies the power of community. Hidden Harvest’s impressive network of over 2,000 volunteers embodies the spirit of community engagement and environmental stewardship. We are eager to support this community-driven approach, inspiring more people to actively participate in creating positive, sustainable change.

This partnership isn’t just about organizations. It’s about building a movement that involves each one of us. Click here to participate in harvest events, register your fruit and nut trees for rescue, become a volunteer, or make an even bigger difference by training to become a Neighbourhood Leader. Your contribution matters, and together, we can make a real impact.

EnviroCentre extends thanks for the funding provided by Green Communities Canada and MakeWay Charitable Society – Hidden Harvest Ottawa project.