Frequently Asked Questions
Learn More About Purple DragonHow Do I Join?
First, fill out this form. If we serve your area, we will help you find the nearest host group or Pod. If there is no space available, you will be put on a waiting list. If we don’t deliver to your area yet, we can help you organize a pod. Pod hosts receive substantial discounts on each delivery.
How Much Food Is It?
The amount of food in each delivery varies between 15-30 pounds. The amounts of any one item are always reasonable — one or two lettuces, 2 1/2 pounds of apples or bananas, etc. Also, one of the benefits of being a member is that you can order additional produce and natural products from our Members Store.
How Often Are Deliveries?
Every other week.
How Much Does It Cost?
$50-66* per delivery, depending on where you live and if you are able to do dividing shifts or not. There are no dues or membership fees.
How Do You Get Your Food?
Every other week, you go to your local pick-up Pod after the food has been divided. Simply pick up your share, sign the sign-in sheet, and leave your check for next time.
What if I Need Extra Produce?
You may order bags of carrots for juicing, organic coffee, or other produce items by visiting our Members Store or calling the office five days before your delivery day. These items will be delivered with your veggies. Others in your group may want to share extra boxes of apples, oranges, potatoes, or eggs (just a few examples) with you, so let your coordinator know.
What if I Need Extra Fruit?
Fruit Shares are available, and are designed to complement the fruit in the regular share. If your Pod has three or more families participating in Fruit Shares, the cost is $20 per delivery. If not, you can order a single fruit share for $25.
What Other Products Are Available?
Besides produce and other foodstuffs such as dried fruits and beans, we offer natural vitamins, juicers, water filters, natural shampoos, and much more at substantial savings. Check out our Members Store!
What Happens if I’ll Be Away on Delivery Day?
You can ask a friend to pick up for you, or, weather permitting, ask the host’s permission to pick up later. If you’re going to be away for a longer period, you must find someone to buy your share. That’s a great way to help a neighbor, relative or friend try the Co-op. Or you may wish to give your share as a gift. Give the name and phone number of the person who will up your share to your Pod Coordinator. Rarely, we may skip a delivery if many people at your Pod will be away at the same time.
How Much Do I Have to Work?
One person from a household works one hour every three months, at your local Pod, helping to divide the produce. Complete instructions will be provided by your Co-ordinator. We ask that you leave small children at home — they divide the food very creatively, but not necessarily fairly!
**During Covid, we have suspended the members’ work-share requirement, but if you’re interested in helping (and earning a discount on your share) ask your coordinator.
What if I Can’t Work My Shift?
We ask that you contact other members of your Pod to see if they can switch with you. Or you may pay a substitute (friend, teenager or another Purple Dragon member) to do your dividing for you. The usual price is $15.
Many groups with weekday pickups charge an extra $2 for each delivery and the people who do the dividing are credited $15 each. This is deducted from their payment for the next delivery.
What If It’s Too Much Food for Me?
Two families may share a delivery. We can help you find a share partner.
I’m Moving to Nebraska. I Will Miss My Veggies!
You can continue to get fabulous organic produce by starting your own co-op: Purple Dragon can train you in our complete method for a home-based business. Please call or write for more information.
What if I Don’t Like What's in My Share?
We recommend that you try three deliveries before deciding, because each delivery is different. If you really want to leave, give your Pod Co-ordinator at least two weeks’ notice. You may rejoin if there is an opening in your Pod, or you may get occasional deliveries by substituting for other members. Simply let your Co-ordinator know you are available.