Now that apple season is at its peak, the Vermont Foodbank’s Pick for Your Neighbor is in full swing at 20 participating orchards throughout Vermont, with renewed underwriting support from Woodchuck Hard Cider.

During apple harvest season, the Vermont Foodbank encourages individuals, families, civic groups and companies to visit participating u-pick apple orchards to pick and purchase extra apples for donation to the Foodbank.

“Pick for Your Neighbor is a fantastic program that provides fresh fruit to Vermonters in need,” says Woodchuck Hard Cider CEO Dan Rowell, after Woodchuck employees picked 7,020 pounds of apples for the program.  “Our

team from Woodchuck had a great trip to Champlain Orchards this year. Not only are we proud to pick for the cause, but we’re able to get out and enjoy the beautiful season.” In addition to underwriting Pick For Your Neighbor, Woodchuck Hard Cider has harvested nearly 30,000 pounds of apples for Vermonters in need since 2010.

“We are so thankful for the support of Woodchuck Hard Cider again, this year, along with the 20 Vermont apple orchards who make it easy for customers to pick and donate apples,” said John Sayles, Vermont Foodbank CEO. “Accessing healthy, nutritious food is often a challenge for our neighbors struggling with hunger. This program offers everyone a great way to get out and enjoy Vermont while making a difference for those in need.”

Last year, Pick for Your Neighbor brought in 14,285 pounds of Vermont fresh apples to the charitable food system. To learn more and to see a list of participating orchards, visit: www.vtfoodbank.org/PickForYourNeighbor