Grimmway Farms Recognized by California Association of Food Banks; Jeff Huckaby and Maria Houlne Discuss
BAKERSFIELD, CA - Grimmway Farms is known for spreading love to local communities through the power of fresh produce, and the grower was recently honored for its contributions by the California Association of Food Banks (CAFB). The recognition comes after the company donated more than 4.3 million pounds of fresh produce to CAFB’s Farm to Family Program in 2021.
“We are honored to contribute to such a meaningful program, which reflects our values of supporting healthy communities and families by putting fresh, healthy produce on America’s tables,” said Jeff Huckaby, President and Chief Executive Officer of Grimmway Farms. “It’s the dedication and hard work of our 8,000-plus team members that make it possible.”
CAFB’s Farm to Family program was established in 2005 and delivers over 160 million pounds of nutritious fresh fruits and vegetables to food banks across California annually, a press release explained. Through the program, community members in need are not only fed and nourished, but it helps reduce food waste as well—an ongoing challenge in the industry. In addition to fresh produce, the program also provides shelf-stable foods and proteins.
“No one should have to choose between paying rent and buying food, yet millions of families must make that choice every month,” Huckaby continued. “Our partnership with CAFB is a step forward in helping mitigate those tough choices and reflects Grimmway’s commitment to healthier lives in a more sustainable world.”
Maria Houlne, Director of the Farm to Family program, explained that one in five California residents currently experiences food insecurity. The pandemic and rising inflation have only intensified these conditions.
“We are so grateful to Grimmway Farms and other growers and food producers—they are essential for keeping food banks stocked with nutritious produce and keeping our communities nourished,” said Houlne. “Thank you to Jeff and team for stepping up throughout the pandemic and as inflation makes grocery budgets even tighter. Access to food is a basic human right, and we couldn’t work toward this reality without partners like Grimmway.”
To find out more about Grimmway Farms’ commitments to people and the planet, read its first Environment, Social, and Governance Report here.
Cheers to Grimmway Farms for continuing to do good in its communities!
