LEAMINGTON, ON – While generally the produce industry associates the word “field” with the agricultural interpretation, Canadian greenhouse grower NatureFresh™ Farms is opening up its definition, and its philanthropic efforts, to the world of school sports.
The company announced in a press release that it will partner with the Greater Essex County District School Board (GECDSB), and South Essex Fabricating Inc to build NatureFresh Field at a new Leamington District Secondary School (LDSS), which had a gap in sports facilities in the lead up to its opening in September.
“Our investment in this initiative is one that thousands of students and the local community will benefit from for decades to come,” said Peter Quiring, Owner & President.
The project, a state-of-the-art track and related sports field, calls for an 8 lane rubberized track, Football and Soccer fields, high jump, and shot put areas to name a few. Ground leveling has already begun with full construction expected to start in the next week.
“We are absolutely thrilled that Peter Quiring and NatureFresh™ Farms are getting involved with this project, the entire community will benefit from these facilities for years to come,” stated Erin Kelly, Director of Education, GECDSB.
Funded by NatureFresh Farms, South Essex Fabricating, and extensive local community initiatives, the goal of raising $1.5 million has been set to complete the elaborate project. Quiring has pledged upwards of $250,000 in support of the new ‘NatureFresh Field,’ including the coordination of the fundraising efforts through the company’s “Operation Flag Pole Campaign.”
“Operation Flag Pole is fueled by the community; we need their support to make this massive project a reality and to raise the flag up the pole,” said Chris Veillon, Director of Marketing. The Operation Flag Pole Program is driven by NatureFresh™ Farms to generate support in the community. A number of local corporations are stepping forward to help with the project.
In collaboration with the LDSS School Council, fundraising activities will kick into high gear in the coming weeks.
“Having attended LDSS many years ago and played on the Varsity Soccer team, I know what it is like to have access to quality training facilities,” said John Paterson, Mayor of Leamington. “The Leamington community is fortunate to have local entrepreneurs like Peter Quiring who are giving back. This investment in NatureFresh Field is one that our entire region will enjoy for many years to come. We are very fortunate to experience this level of generosity.”
The project can be tracked online by visiting NatureFreshField.ca; viewers will be able to watch the flag move up the flagpole as funds are raised. A photo gallery will also highlight the various activities and construction of NatureFresh Field in the coming months.
