The United Fresh Start Foundation has launched a three-year fundraising campaign that aims to secure US$5 million in commitments to support its mission of increasing children's access to fresh fruit and vegetables.

The new campaign was announced by United Fresh chairman of the board, Cindy Jewell, in her remarks during the United Fresh 2018 Opening General Session.

“As a non-profit, we’re dependent on the generous funding of our industry and other contributors committed to children’s health,” said Phil Muir, chairman of the foundation’s board of trustees.

“Long-term financial commitments will not only allow us to grow our impact today, but also build multi-year collaborations with other organizations that will grow and deepen our impact for years to come.”

Senior director of health and wellness, Kate Olender said the foundation focuses on three core mission areas where it can make the most impact - in schools, in communities and connecting businesses to make a difference in local communities.

The foundation is best known for its flagship Salad Bars to Schools Program, which has placed over 5,000 salad bars in schools in all 50 states, benefitting nearly three-million children.

The Foundation’s Community Grants Program, now in its second year, has provided US$100,000 to community organizations that increase kids’ access to fresh fruits and vegetables after school, on weekends, and throughout the summer. 

Each year, during the United Fresh Expo & Conference, the Foundation hosts more than 50 school foodservice directors for the annual School Foodservice Forum, a two-day interactive event that connects the sector with fresh produce industry leaders.

“We have been contributing to the United Fresh Start Foundation for many years,” said Lisa McNeece, vice president of foodservice and industrial sales at Grimmway Enterprises.

“The impact I’ve personally witnessed has been tremendous. Barbara Grimm-Marshall has been a true champion of the Edible Garden in our very own community.

"This along with Grimmway’s corporate contribution to the Foundation has allowed us to expand that reach and provide access for more kids across the country.  The benefits are truly immeasurable.”

www.freshfruitportal.com