Guidelines for Volunteers

Guidelines for Volunteers

  1. Eligibility & Registration
    You must be at least 18 years old to sign up as a volunteer with Falling Fruit Ireland. 
    Expect to complete a volunteer application, sign a waiver or liability release.

  2. Scheduling & Availability
    Falling Fruit coordinates harvests according to team capacity and fruit availability.
    You’ll find volunteer requests posted via email, and you can sign up.
    Teams are chosen based on proximity to picking site.
    Typical harvest or gleaning days fall from Monday to Thursday, starting in the morning (around 10.00 am) and lasting a few hours.

  3. Transport & Pre-Arrival
    If you can help with transportation—especially for moving fruit from site to distribution points—we appreciate volunteers who can lift crates and use a personal vehicle.

  4. On-Site Conduct & Safety
    Follow instructions from the harvest leader.
    Dress appropriately: closed-toe sturdy shoes, comfortable clothing, sun protection like hats and sunscreen, and gloves if preferred.
    Use tools correctly—clip or twist fruit carefully, avoid climbing ladders if not trained (pole pickers are often provided for high fruit).
    If possible, stay for the full duration of your shift and help gather all tools and equipment before leaving.

  5. Rewards & Community Spirit
    Volunteers are offered a share of the harvest that you can take home, while the rest goes to families in need.
    Volunteering is not just about fruit picking—expect to meet new people, enjoy fresh air, and contribute meaningfully to reducing food waste