Local agricultural nonprofits unite to feed East Valley farmworkers
Growing Coachella Valley kicked off our valley’s agricultural week by providing daily resources to our local farmer workers.
On Thursday, the non-profit honored our essential workers by providing them lunch.
Farmworkers at Rancho Maria in Thermal line up to grab their free lunch.
“I am grateful for this its awesome that they provided us the food," said Maria Delgado.
“It means a lot because not all the time do they give us food," said Iraida Herrera, a farmworker.
Iraida Herrera felt the appreciation for hard work after spending hours working in our fields.
“We come everyday to work because we really need to work and get the money to provide for our families so getting that its like a big help," said Herrera.
Lunch was provided by local agriculture non-profits and community groups across the valley as they show appreciation for our essential workers.
“Its important to recognize farm workers not just today but throughout the whole year because these are the individuals that put food on our table," said Hernan Hernandez, Executive Director for California Farmworker Foundation.
Supervisor V. Manuel Perez’s staff also showed their commitment by handing out bags filled with information on the census and essential which included a roll of toilet paper, masks, gloves, a water bottle and even a school workbook for children.
“Maybe some people aren’t aware that even the own farmers are even having trouble selling their produce because restaurants are closed and some of those were their major buyers," said Shayra Hernandez, East Valley and Agriculture Advisor for Supervisor V. Manuel Perez. "if that affects the restaurants then that will come down to our agricultural workers.”
Maria Delgado says she’s not complaining.
“Yeah, it's hot, it's humid but it’s all worth it," said Delgado.
Others can show their support through donations for farmworkers. Suggested items include non-perishable foods, sports drinks, personal care items and new socks. Farmworker donations can be dropped off at Shields Date Garden, 80225 Highway 111, Indio, CA.
