WAREHAM — One in three people in Southeastern Massachusetts experience food insecurity and do not know where their next meal will come from, according to Marion Institute Executive Director Liz Wiley.

Food insecure residents' lack of access to fresh fruits and vegetables inspired the Marion Institute to launch the volunteer-based Frogfoot Farm program in Wareham, which brings produce to local food pantries.

“The hardest food items for individuals that are reliant on food pantries to get are fresh fruits and vegetables and meats and dairy, just the very basics of a healthy diet,” said Wiley.

Volunteers will increase their farming capabilities in the upcoming 2025 planting season, ramping up production to almost 50 beds of carrots, beets, spinach, turnips and other fruits and vegetables.

The farm currently has a core group of about 20 consistent volunteers but are looking to grow their staff moving forward.

“That’s certainly not enough,” said Wiley. “The more volunteers we get, the more volunteer sessions we’ll be able to open up and add to our outreach. We’re certainly always looking for individuals to come and help out.”

Wiley says the volunteers get to help out the community in addition to gaining knowledge about restoring the land and biodiversity within farming, which is essential to cultivating a healthy and robust environment for crops.

“They’re learning about farming, they’re getting outdoors, they’re getting exercise,” said Wiley. “They’re also taking care of themselves in the process of taking care of others.”

Food production volunteer sessions take place on Wednesday and Friday mornings from 9 a.m. to around 12 p.m. while ecology sessions are hosted on Thursday mornings from 9 a.m. to around 12 p.m., all taking place at the farm located off of 146 Tihonet Road.

Individuals interested in joining the volunteer program can reach out to the Marion Institute online at marioninstitute.org.

“I think it’s really important for people to understand that food insecurity is rampant in our area,” said Wiley.