It seems fitting then, that while we celebrate National Fruits and Veggies Month each September we also recognize Hunger Action Month.  Specifically, this year we shared our support on National Food Bank Day that takes place on the first Friday in September. 

Food banks play an important role in our communities, often providing the bridge between our products and families who may, for a variety of reasons, lack access to healthy food. Food insecurity exists in every community, which includes the communities where we hold some of our largest events. 

For decades, IFPA has partnered with Feeding America network of Food Banks, many are still known as Second Harvest, and other community partners to rescue and distribute produce and floral donations from the Global Produce & Floral Show. Not only does this partnership help us make a more environmentally sustainable show, but it also allows us to lower food waste and provide fresh, nutritious fruits and vegetables and flowers to local communities.

Last year in Anaheim, volunteers rescued an impressive 221,000 pounds of produce donations from exhibitors, which were then distributed to communities around Anaheim. These dedicated volunteers work into the night, gleaning, collecting, and transporting produce, floral and green waste from the expo to ensure that nutritious and delicious food reaches those in need.

Addressing access and seeking sustainable approaches to our show is not just a Global Show priority. This is a global challenge, and so it requires global action. 

This year, the eighth annual Brazil Conference & Expo, held from Aug. 7-8 in São Paulo, concluded with remarkable success. With a record-breaking attendance of 4,300 people, the event saw 150 brands come together to donate 1.7 tons of fresh produce to individuals facing food insecurity. The Food Bank NGO managed and distributed these donations to 14 charities across São Paulo, enhancing the nutritional value of meals served to thousands of families

Founded in 1998, the Food Bank NGO has delivered 20,000 tons of food over its 26-year history, benefiting 38,000 people. The Brazil Conference & Expo showcased trends, discussed challenges and opportunities in the fruits, flowers, vegetables and greens industry, and provided an ideal environment for networking and updates.

Valeska Oliveira, country manager for IFPA and head of products at Francal, celebrated the event’s success and emphasized the importance of such actions for the industry and the larger community. “We are thrilled with the event’s outcome, from start to finish. Hosting an event of this magnitude, with both national and international participants and exhibitors, reassures us that we’re on the right track. We concluded the event with flying colors, fulfilling our commitment to the entire industry and focusing on people’s well-being,” she said.

I want to echo Valeska and challenge us all as we make our final preparations coming into the show to remember that we are a critical part of people’s well-being. As we network, as we build our business connections, and as we learn about the opportunities and challenges ahead of us, keep in mind that we, together, can change the trajectory of human health.

The Global Produce & Floral Show is set to continue its tradition of giving back in Atlanta this year. On Saturday evening, after many of us finally take a breather after an exciting and busy week, our Food Bank volunteers move in to take over. They spend hours gleaning, rescuing, packing and transporting produce, floral, green waste, furnishings and more to ensure it reaches community members across Atlanta.  In many ways, it embodies the vibrant, healthy future we want all people to experience and enjoy every day.