Newly Launched Program Aims to Increase Farmworkers’ Access to Fresh Foods
Des Moines, IA – Proteus, Inc., was recently awarded a $50,000 gift from Tito’s Handmade Vodka to support the launch of a new program aimed at providing fresh, delicious produce directly to the doorsteps of rural, resource-constrained farmworkers living in food deserts. Proteus, Inc. has forged a strategic partnership with Capital City Fruit, one of the nation’s premier produce distributors with headquarters in Norwalk, IA, to power product and delivery services.
Diet and nutrition play a critical role in maintaining overall wellbeing but the barriers to procuring fresh fruits and vegetables can sometimes be too high for some farmworkers. Long working hours and lack of availability and reliable transportation can make it difficult for workers to obtain fresh produce, especially when the nearest grocery store may be 10 miles or more away. Proteus, Inc. is dedicated to supporting agricultural workers and their families. Increasing access to fresh produce is important to that mission, especially for those experiencing chronic health conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, and hypertension.
“We are grateful to have the support of Tito’s Handmade Vodka and Capital City Fruit as we work toward supporting agricultural workers in our community,” said Daniel Zinnel, CEO at Proteus, Inc. “Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Capital City Fruit, and Proteus, Inc. all believe that everyone deserves consistent access to fresh, healthy food, and we are committed to making that a reality for those we serve.”
“We’re excited to support the work that Proteus, Inc. is doing to provide farmworkers with access to fresh produce,” said Lindsey Bates, Director of Philanthropy Operations for Tito’s Handmade Vodka. “At Tito’s Handmade Vodka, we are passionate about increasing access to fresh produce through our own Fourteen Acres Farm in Austin and our Block to Block program across the country.”
Proteus, Inc. invites individuals, corporations, and local businesses to join hands in supporting this transformative initiative. By becoming a supporter, you will join Proteus, Inc., Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and Capital City Fruit in making a tangible impact on the lives of those who need it most.
For more information about the produce delivery program or supporting Proteus, Inc., visit www.proteusinc.net/blog/.
About Proteus, Inc.
Proteus, Inc. is a multistate, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that has been serving farmworkers and their families since 1979. Its mission is to provide agricultural workers and their families with affordable healthcare, education assistance, and job training.
About Tito’s Handmade Vodka
Tito’s Handmade Vodka was founded by sixth-generation Texan, Bert “Tito” Beveridge. In the mid-nineties, on a plot of land in rural Austin, he built a 998 square foot shack, rigged a pot still with spare parts, and created Tito’s Handmade Vodka. Tito’s corn-based vodka is certified gluten free. Tito’s Handmade Vodka is distilled and bottled by Fifth Generation, Inc. in Austin, Texas, and is available in Liter, 1.75L, 750ml, 375ml, 200ml, and 50ml sizes. For more information, visit www.titosvodka.com.
About Capital City Fruit
Capital City Fruit, headquartered in Norwalk, Iowa, is a grower, shipper, repacker, and supply chain manager of fresh fruits and vegetables. In 1949, Joseph T. Comito and Ross and Bernard Grandanette founded a fruit market in the capital city of Iowa. Today, Capital City Fruit has developed a vast grower network focused on providing high-quality service and consistent produce delivered to the customer’s specifications. Capital City Fruit serves retail, food service, processors, and individuals with a variety of products and services. For more information, visit www.capitalcityfruit.com.
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