Portland Fruit Tree Project is a grassroots 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Portland, Oregon. Their mission is to increase equitable access to healthful food and strengthen communities by empowering neighbors to share in the harvest and care of city-grown produce. They envision joyful communities that see fruit trees as abundant resources contributing to a just food system and enhancing the well-being of people, community networks, habitat, and the climate.

The organization provides a community-based solution to the critical need for access to healthy food and the benefits provided by trees, such as cleaner air, shade, and food. By empowering neighbors to share in the harvest and care of urban fruit trees, they prevent waste, build community knowledge and resources, and create sustainable ways to obtain healthy, locally-grown food. Addressing food insecurity is a priority for Portland Fruit Tree Project, as one in seven Oregonians face this issue, with over 35% being children.

They strive to improve the quality of life for people in Portland by providing fresh fruit through their Harvest Program and Partnerships. Furthermore, they recognize the history of racial inequity in the city, which has resulted in fewer trees in lower income neighborhoods, making these areas more vulnerable to the effects of climate change. In 2022, Portland Fruit Tree Project plans to work with partners to plant fruit trees and provide care and education in these impacted areas, with the aim of building a better Portland.

They believe their successful programming can also be replicated in other regions. While acknowledging that they have a long road ahead to become a truly equitable and inclusive organization, Portland Fruit Tree Project is committed to sharing their equity journey and welcomes engagement and thoughts on improvement. They have a rich history dating back to 2006, when the Neighborhood Fruit Tree Project was established in response to excess fruit dropping from trees in North and Northeast Portland.

Over the years, they have hosted numerous harvest events, established community orchards, and conducted educational workshops on fruit tree pruning and food preservation. In 2020, they re-launched their organization with a focus on food equity and their role in the local food system. Portland Fruit Tree Project can be contacted at 5431 Northeast 20th Avenue, Portland, OR, 97211, United States, and via email at info@portlandfruit.

org. They are open to questions, accountability, and welcome anyone interested in joining their cause