We appreciate your sharing of your garden's bounty and love rescued produce! But there’s a difference between ugly and unsafe. Wilted or misshapen fruits and veggies are totally fine, but anything moldy, slimy, or rotting can’t be accepted it might cause other donations to go bad. If you wouldn’t eat it, please don’t donate it.

Currently, WiN-WiN is primarily seeking fresh produce from homes, farms, or gardens. However, unopened canned or shelf-stable food will also be accepted.

Your produce will be distributed to our community partners in Jessamine County including Manna Meals, Revive Life House, and the Nicholasville Food Bank. These partners will either redistribute the food to local individuals or families in need or use it to prepare nutritious meals for these vulnerable community members.

Here are a few tips for keeping your produce as fresh as possible before donating:

• Harvest Close to Donation Time: Pick fruits and vegetables as close to the donation drop-off date as possible to maximize freshness.
• Keep Produce Cool: Store items in a cool, shaded area immediately after harvest to prevent wilting or spoilage. Refrigerate items like leafy greens, carrots, or broccoli if possible.
• Avoid Washing Before Storage: Don’t wash produce before donating, as moisture can encourage spoilage. Leave dirt intact and let the receiving organization handle cleaning.
• Sort and Inspect: Check for signs of spoilage or damage and remove any inedible items to ensure only quality produce is donated.
• Pack Carefully: Use sturdy containers or boxes that allow air circulation, such as perforated crates or ventilated baskets. Avoid over-packing to prevent bruising delicate items like tomatoes or peaches.
• Separate by Type: Keep fruits and vegetables stored separately when possible. Some fruits, like apples and bananas, release ethylene gas, which can speed up ripening in nearby produce.

By following these tips, you can help ensure your donations remain fresh and ready for distribution!

No!

Under the Bill Emerson Good Samaritan Food Donation Act, individuals and organizations that donate food in good faith to nonprofit organizations for distribution to those in need are protected from civil and criminal liability. This protection applies to donations of "apparently wholesome food" and "apparently fit grocery products," meaning food that meets quality and labeling standards, even if it is not marketable due to factors like appearance, age, or surplus.

The Act does not protect against liability in cases of gross negligence or intentional misconduct, but as long as donations are made in good faith and comply with applicable federal, state, and local laws, donors can confidently contribute to reducing food waste and supporting those in need. For more details, refer to USDA resources on the Bill Emerson Good Samaritan Food Donation Act.

If you want to donate a significant amount of produce but aren't able to transport it, we may be able to come to you. Reach out to win.win@uky.edu to see if pickup is an option.