NORTH AMERICA - November is the time when we can look back on a year well spent and give thanks to those who helped us along the way. Of course, none of us would be here without the farmworkers who put food on our tables every day. In the spirit of Gratitude Month, Equitable Food Initiative (EFI) asked our industry friends to give thanks to the ag workforce. And give thanks they did.

Paul Mastronardi, President and Chief Executive Officer, Mastronardi Produce®

“Mastronardi Produce® is grateful to greenhouse growers and farmworkers for the vital role they play in our business and in the overall food supply chain. Your skills and hard work ensure local communities have access to fresh, healthy, and sustainably grown food. Thank you for growing for the future.”

Emily Zirkle, Business Development, Rainier Fruit Company

“While we all have farmers to thank for our food, it’s not a stretch for me to say I owe my life to farm and warehouse workers. Every single tree, every piece of fruit, every packed box is handled by people—and has been every season for generations. I couldn’t agree more with my grandfather Bill Zirkle, who has always credited our operation’s success to the passionate people, a great majority of them Latinos, who have chosen to make their livelihoods with us as farmers. I give my most sincere thanks to all agricultural workers everywhere this Gratitude Month!”

Tony Pacheco, Foreign Worker/Health and Safety Manager, Windset Farms®

“Windset Farms® extends our heartfelt thanks to our farmers, growers, packers, and shippers for their unwavering commitment and diligent efforts in delivering premium, high-quality produce from our farms to consumers’ tables. Collaborative teamwork in constructing a streamlined supply chain centered around freshness is pivotal in ensuring global food security. Today and every day, we thank you.”

Brianna Shales, Marketing Director, Stemilt

“Stemilt’s World Famous Fruit would not be possible without the commitment and hard work of farmers and farmworkers. We share our gratitude this November (and really, every day) for their passion to produce flavorful fruit and help feed the world. What purposeful work that is!”

Scott Mabs, Chief Executive Officer, Homegrown Organic Farms

“During Gratitude Month and throughout the year, we want to express our heartfelt appreciation to the dedicated farmers who work tirelessly to nourish our bodies and support our communities. Their unwavering commitment to quality, safety, and equity in our food supply is truly the foundation of our wellbeing. We are grateful to our growers and farming partners for their stewardship of the land and people.”

If you’re looking for more ways to give thanks to farmers this month, EFI encourages the industry to tag #GratitudeGrowsHere in their social posts.

We at AndNowUKnow are grateful for each and every one of you all year ’round. Happy Gratitude Month!

Equitable Food Initiative