St. Johns Food Share

I’ve been a member of St Johns Food Share for over two years. I love this food gleaning organization! I’m able to supplement my family’s grocery budget for the $ 30 month membership fee. I have a vote in how the organization is run. I love the element of surprise, I never know what foods await me when I arrive. The chance to introduce my family to foods that I may not otherwise be able to purchase is a blessing.
In addition to the food we bring home, my family enjoys the sense of community we build when volunteering at SJFS. I encourage everyone to check out this organization. Come volunteer along side us, share a meal with us and grow with us.
Post Script — I’d like to add that this organization donates to other food agencies as well as local farmers. The concept of permaculture guides this organization. I have seen farmers pick up foods that would be wasted if not for them, foods that are past their prime are used to feed animals or turned into compost.

The former GH has lots of news this year — including a new name! St. Johns Food Share! and a lovely new logo are now on the facility at 8100 N Lombard — you can see some of the facility improvements… on the Web Site and LIKE the group on Facebook to remind you to come check it out. The new name that makes it more clear what the not-​for-​profit organization does: St. Johns Food Share. A Grand Re-​Opening is planned for 12 – 4 Saturday JUNE 4^th 2016 — and all are invited. Lots of entertainment and free food is planned, and you can join as a Member or Community Volunteer on that day.
When I dropped my first monthly $ 30 fee to join — I had NO idea how much I’d gain from this place — and how much I’d want to help out. I’ll be by the Stage schmoozing some funny musicians on JUne 4^th — so come say Hi! (CODE WORDs: WHERE ARE MY PICKLES??)
Members and Volunteers do EVERYthing to make the program happen — and in terms of a wide variety of nutritious foods (and desserts! but don’t tell anybody!!) we get more than we give. Currently, we could use more Drivers to pick up food donations, event Volunteers, and people to help set-​up the Store before 8 AM M /​W and Fridays. We also want to allocate some space for a fun and safe Kid Space, so Parents are free to shop, visit and Volunteer awhile without worry. Come join us — it is a great Volunteer gig, and you’ll never eat healthier for less! I’m a rampant gardener, and i get a lot of rooted veggies to re-​plant — I’ll teach you how — we all have tips, smiles and skills to share — bring yours! Working together — we can make it 5 stars!

I just stopped in last week to check this out. Very impressive assortment of food and some of the nicest people. The price of membership is amazing — $ 30/​month??? This is a no-​brainer for anyone in the area. Just wish it were closer to where I actually live.

I am very upset about Golden Harvesters! I paid to become a member, and every time we went there the food that was put out was horrible! the produce was literally rotten with mold – the bread as well. Interestingly, when doing the «volunteer work» required to be a member, we saw tons of fresh, healthy produce, and so many products that never makes it to the shelves for the members. Based on some informal investigation I have been doing, I think this organization needs an intervention! I have heard reports of mismanagement of funds, and that the managing members use the organization to fill their personal needs – like ordering quality meat for their personal use, taking the quality product that is in the back, etc. I even witnessed with my own eyes someone pulling their car to the side door and taking food product right out without having gone through the checkout system – isn’t that theft? I hope someone will investigate this soon!!! It is really sad that this agency which is supposed to be a support in the community is not doing so!

Golden Harvesters provides a much needed services — fresh food and quality preowned clothing. The folks there treat those in need with great respect and kindness. Recipients of of Golden Harvest support also volunteer. In 2013 one of their very active volunteers, Sandra Guyot, won the Lowenstein Trust Award for her community service work with Golden Harvesters.

Golden Harvesters is a great option for quality fresh produce and food, especially if you live on a tight budget. Not only does GH support the community with affordable food but they also encourage community service. They are always very friendly and helpful. It’s a great program and worth the cost!