What We Do

St. Johns Food Share was first started in 1988 (formerly Golden Harvesters) as a member-owned, volunteer-powered food sharing community. As of March, 2024, SJFS has transitioned away from the membership model which means we are now able to provide services to anyone without membership as a barrier. The Food Share is currently 100% volunteer run. We fight hunger by ensuring everyone has access to an adequate amount of free, nutritious food and we empower hundreds of North Portland families by providing fresh produce, dairy products, protein and staples, while keeping high quality food out of the waste stream.

Based on our current momentum, we expect to distribute nearly 1 million pounds of food to families in St Johns, North and Northwest Portland, and across Metro Portland in 2024. Our sustainable, eco-friendly practices offer food security to more than 1,000 people monthly

Who We Serve

Everyone is welcome at St. Johns Food Share. We serve our membership community, as well as other food pantries, shelters and the faith community and mutual aid groups when we have abundant donations. There are no income requirements or residency restrictions.

St. Johns is one of the most diverse neighborhoods in Portland. 60% of residents are non-white, nearly 25% within the 97203 zip code live at or below the poverty line. St. Johns Food Share is here to empower all families and promote human dignity.

How it Works

We work with retailers to collect and make good use of unsold fresh fruits and vegetables, frozen products, baked goods, dairy products, canned goods and packaged goods. This arrangement helps retailers avoid expensive disposal of food that is still safe and healthy to eat. Sometimes produce may have slight blemishes; some items may be close to expiration date.

You’ll find a variety of foods, and you select the items you prefer for your own household. We are not like a food pantry, where items might be chosen for you and offered in a pre-packed box. St Johns Food Share has refrigerated ready to eat and frozen items too! Our warehouse offers safe storage of food in both freezers and refrigerators. Our members can save hundreds of dollars a month on food, easing the strain on overall monthly budgets.

Our Team

Members at Large

Jack Cook
Jay Beaudoin
June Sanders
Sara Goodwin
Charles O’Neil
Marey Ryan
Craig Bauhm

Community Members at Large

Amy Davis
Jan Leader