The Emerald Keepers program has launched its Coronado Crops initiative for 2026, continuing its mission of addressing food insecurity in the San Diego region. Since its inception in 2024, high school interns have volunteered to pick surplus fruit from local gardens, donating it to the Imperial Beach Neighborhood Center Food Pantry. This effort not only supports those in need but also helps manage the abundance of fruit in the community.
As local fruit trees begin to yield a bountiful harvest, many residents in Coronado find themselves with excess lemons, oranges, avocados, and other fruits. The Emerald Keepers organization encourages anyone with surplus fruit to reach out. The interns will gladly come to pick as much produce as donors wish to contribute. This initiative plays a vital role in providing fresh produce, which is often in short supply at food banks.
Food insecurity is a pressing issue in the San Diego region, affecting approximately one in six individuals. According to the San Diego Food Bank, an estimated 848,000 residents in San Diego County struggle to provide three nutritious meals per day for themselves or their families. This statistic includes 218,000 children, 182,000 older adults (aged 60 and above), and 137,000 individuals living with disabilities. Fresh fruits and vegetables are particularly scarce at food banks, making contributions from local gardens even more essential.
How to Participate in Coronado Crops
Participating in the Coronado Crops program is straightforward. Residents can select their preferred weekend date and time for the interns to harvest their fruit. The Emerald Keepers team will provide all necessary labor and tools, making it a hassle-free way to contribute to the community. Interested individuals can sign up by completing an online form or by emailing [email protected]. The interns will respond promptly to confirm arrangements.
In addition to aiding those in need, this program also benefits the donors’ gardens. Leaving excess fruit on trees can lead to rotting, which attracts pests such as rats, possums, and insects. Therefore, donating fruit not only assists others but also promotes healthier garden environments.
Since its launch, the Coronado Crops initiative has successfully harvested and donated over 1,400 pounds of fresh produce. The goal for this year is to double that amount, but the program relies on community participation to achieve this target. Residents are encouraged to share information about the program with their neighbors to maximize the impact.
Emerald Keepers invites everyone to join this meaningful effort, helping to alleviate food insecurity while keeping Coronado vibrant and green. By donating surplus fruit, residents can play a crucial role in supporting their community and fostering a spirit of generosity.
