3 Questions

Florida Politics recently spoke with Noble Citrus Director of Procurement Adam Roe about the company’s partnership with Feeding Florida, a statewide food bank network.

FP: How does the partnership with Feeding Florida benefit farmers and their communities?

Roe: The partnership with Feeding Florida is highly beneficial for farmers and their communities, acting as a crucial conduit for community support. It provides farmers with a reliable outlet for their produce, especially when the crops don’t turn out as expected, do not ripen in time, or ripen too soon. This allows farmers to contribute positively to their communities by ensuring their produce doesn’t go to waste. Farmers want to help their communities but can often use assistance in how to execute that. 

FP: Can you describe the “pick and pack out” model of Feeding Florida and its impact on providing local produce to Florida families?

Roe: The “pick and pack out” model employed by Feeding Florida enables farmers to pack their fruit for families in need and deliver it to Feeding Florida partners, with compensation provided for these activities. This approach allows farmers to recoup costs while ensuring that the fruit remains within the state of Florida, benefiting local communities directly. It represents an efficient use of resources, helping to distribute local produce to families in need across the state.

FP: Why is food independence crucial for Florida, and what are the benefits of participating in planned loads with Farmers Feeding Florida for your farm?

Roe: Before COVID, food independence wasn’t something the average consumer worried about, or likely thought about at all. But when we began to see empty shelves, more and more people began to realize that if America doesn’t grow its own food, we may not have a reliable food supply. That is why supporting programs like Farmers Feeding Florida is so incredibly vital to our future and our state’s food security.

Participating in planned loads with Farmers Feeding Florida has significantly benefited the farm by ensuring continuity of supply and allowing for steady work for the workforce, including H2A harvest partners. It reduces fruit loss during peak seasons by having a reliable schedule with an understanding partner.

 

This article was originally published by Florida Politics on February 19, 2024.