UglyCSA

We're creating new markets for previously unsellable produce — benefiting local farmers and preserving the resources that went into food production.

For 12 weeks during peak growing season (July–October), UglyCSA subscribers receive a weekly bag of locally sourced produce. Purchasing just one share saves approximately 180 lbs of good food and 2,450 gallons of water, equivalent to enough drinking water for 13 people for an entire year!

For the 2023 season, the Ugly CSA program will be on hiatus.

 

Get on the wait list for 2024!

FAQs

What can I expect in my weekly UglyCSA share?

You’ll receive a variety of fruits and vegetables ripe for harvest locally. You can expect to enjoy summer staples like juicy peaches, ripe tomatoes, and fresh corn at the start of the program. Six weeks in, you’ll notice a shift to fall favorites like crisp apples, plump pears, and savory squash. We always balance out seasonal items with pantry staples like potatoes, onions, greens, and more!

Each share will include 10-15 pounds of fruits and veggies packed into a standard brown paper bag. You’ll receive an email every Monday previewing the items to be packed on Wednesday so you can plan ahead.

Where does the food come from?

For the third year in a row, 412 Food Rescue is partnering with Isidore Foods to source our locally grown produce. Based in Bethel Park, Isidore Foods works with small family farms no further than 175 miles from Pittsburgh. Learn more about the farms here.

Will my produce be “ugly” or misshapen?

While the produce in your share may not come in all funky shapes like other popular produce subscriptions, our friends at Isidore Foods will source “seconds” from local growers. These fruits and veggies may be unsaleable to major retailers because the batch is too small, the sizing does not align with industry ideals, or simply because the demand is low.

How will I receive my UglyCSA share?

412 Food Rescue is partnering with ten local businesses to provide convenient pick-up locations in the Pittsburgh area. When purchasing your UglyCSA share, select the neighborhood most accessible to your home or office. Business partners are not required to hold shares overnight that were not picked up by end of day Wednesday.

You may also designate an alternate contact in the payment form to grant a family member, roommate, or friend permission to pick-up on your behalf.

What does the cost of an UglyCSA go towards?

In 2022, a $290 share is equivalent to less than $25 a week. 65% of your total purchase covers the cost of fruits and vegetables sourced by Isidore Foods. Less than 1% of your payment covers credit card processing fees and transportation. The remaining 34% supports the operations of 412 Food Rescue such as program supplies and labor.

Is this a more sustainable option than visiting my local grocery store?

Yes! Did you know that the average piece of produce in the U.S. travels 1,500 miles? Local food typically travels 100 miles or less, reducing CO2 emissions significantly. Each UglyCSA share saves approximately 180 lbs of good food and 2,450 gallons of water, equivalent to enough drinking water for 13 people for an entire year! We’ve also eliminated single-use plastics from our UglyCSA shares.

How else can I support 412 Food Rescue?

412 Food Rescue is committed to bridging the gap between food waste and food insecurity in the Pittsburgh area. You can tangibly support our hunger relief efforts by volunteering as a #FoodRescueHero. Download the 412 Food Rescue app to be notified of surplus food donations available at local grocery stores and restaurants. We match the food donation to a nearby nonprofit serving neighbors burdened by hunger and rely on volunteers to transport these small, perishable goods in their personal vehicle. A little drive goes a long way to show kindness to our neighbors and our planet!

What your bag could look like:

I just wanted to say thank you for an amazing first box. We’re blown away by the quality and variety of produce. We’ve had other CSAs before, but this is our first season with 412 Food Rescue. Thanks so much for everything you do.

Andrea S.Pittsburgh