PORTLAND, Maine — Food pantries have long played a crucial role in supporting communities, and a new initiative is making it even easier for individuals to contribute.
Harvesting Good, a brand launched by the Good Shepherd Food Bank, is changing the game by introducing a simple yet impactful way for people to make a difference – just by doing their regular grocery shopping.
Harvesting Good has made its debut in more than a hundred Hannaford stores across New England. The new brand focuses on a product that might surprise some: frozen broccoli.
Why broccoli? According to the brand's president, it is the most consumed frozen produce product in New England.
What sets Harvesting Good apart is its commitment to local production. The entire operation takes place in Maine, from the broccoli farm in Caribou to a locally-owned processing company responsible for flash-freezing the produce.
This dedication to local sourcing aims to support regional farms, with all profits channeled toward food banks in the Northeast.
"In the next five years, we hope to have six different products grown at 12 farms in Maine and New England, processed by only one or two processors," Matt Chin, president of Harvesting Good, said. "That's the long-term goal."
"The collaboration with Good Shepherd Food Bank is designed to create a sustainable growth plan, generating profits to be donated to food pantries," Heather Paquette, president of Good Shepherd Food Bank, emphasized.
Already making local strides, Harvesting Good has introduced its broccoli in some K-12 schools.
The brand aspires to continue expanding its reach, with the ultimate goal of feeding more individuals across Maine. By closing the fresh gap with frozen products, Harvesting Good aims to create critical funds for reinvestment in local food pantries.
Harvesting Good offers consumers a unique opportunity to contribute to their communities simply by choosing a product during their routine grocery shopping. As the brand continues to grow and diversify its offerings, the impact on local farms and food pantries is set to be substantial.
By supporting Harvesting Good, individuals can play an active role in addressing food insecurity and fostering a sustainable future for their communities.
So, the next time you're at Hannaford, consider making a choice that goes beyond your shopping cart.