The Georgia Department of Agriculture will continue its Georgia Grown To-Go events today in Gwinnett, as part of its “Buy Georgia Grown, Now More Than Ever” campaign. With the normal farmers markets across the state either cancelled or severely pared down, getting produce and other products direct from the state’s farmers into the hands of hungry Georgians has gotten much more difficult. Stories are floating about crops spoiling in the fields and even livestock being killed to save money. This campaign aims to help Georgia farmers avoid this fate.
“We are excited to offer this great opportunity to help bridge the gap between consumers in metro areas and our farmers in South Georgia,” says Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Gary W. Black. “With foodservice channels limited, Georgia Grown To-Go pop up markets are a great and innovative way to make sure our consumers have access to the Georgia Grown products they crave. We have enjoyed joining forces with our local government and non-profit partners in an effort to best serve our communities during this unprecedented time.”
The markets are pop-up style, with limited contact and drive-through service available. There has been testing in Northwest Georgia and in DeKalb County, and last Saturday was rolled out in Marietta. Local food banks were also beneficiaries of donations during the event.
Gwinnett County’s event will be at Coolray Field from 3-7 p.m. – rain or shine while supplies last. Produce boxes will be placed directly in car trunks and contactless payments, though cash will be accepted.
“Georgia Grown To-Go is an innovative program with multiple benefits,” said Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners Chairman Charlotte Nash. “It helps farmers stay in business during these difficult times by providing them with a direct market. It helps the consumer – our residents – by providing them with fresh, healthy produce that they can pick up and take home with limited exposure to others. And it keeps money in the state, which provides a welcome boost to our economy. It’s a win-win-win scenario. We appreciate the Georgia Department of Agriculture’s bringing such a creative solution to Gwinnett. I’m sure it will be well-used.”
The Gwinnett Stripers are a sponsor for the event, offering location and operations support. Customers can also support their community by donating a box to a neighbor or local charity. Gwinnett County will work with community partners of Gwinnett Cares to provide items to local nonprofits, co-ops, and faith-based facilities.
“Our team has been working diligently with community leaders to connect our farmers who have tended their crops all season long to supply safe and nutritious food for our consumers in need of delicious Georgia Grown products,” said Commissioner Black. “Each event is unique to the community it serves and would not be possible without the vision and collaboration of local government and non-profit partners.”
