PLANT CITY, FL - Star athletes and corporate leaders came together for Wish Farms’ 2nd Annual Bright House Networks Strawberry Picking Challenge. The event ultimately raised $76,000 for Redlands Christian Migrant Association (RCMA), a $2000 raise from last years’ picking event.
The fundraising event, held on Saturday, February 7, featured 20 corporate-sponsored teams who competed in relays to earn the title of “Best Harvest Crew.” Some of the crews represented included Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association, Monte Package Company, Patterson Companies, International Paper, Florida Strawberry Growers Association, and Farm Credit of Central Florida. Strawberry growers from around the state were well represented at the event, providing picking instructions and serving as team coaches.
The eventual winner of the challenge and the coveted 'Strawberry Joe’ trophy', was the Monte Package Company, coached by Jacob Hare of Berry Patches and accompanied by former MLB All-Star Fred McGriff.
Watch the video below for a deeper look into the day's events:
In addition to the strawberry picking fun, the day-long event emceed by InfoMas reporter Melissa Zayas Moreno, featured family-friendly events including strawberry picking for children, a balloon artist, face painter, games, and live music by Clemons Road Band. Special appearances at the event included the Florida Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam, Florida Strawberry Festival Queen and Court, Tampa Bay Buccaneers Cheerleaders, and Wish Farms’ Misty the Garden Pixie, according to a press release.
“This fun, family event was a great success,” said Gary Wishnatzki, Owner of Wish Farms. “We hope we succeeded in bringing awareness not only to the hard work of our farm workers but also to the outstanding contribution that RCMA makes.”
Proceeds from the Strawberry Picking Challenge will benefit RCMA, a non-profit organization that operates child-care centers and charter schools for Florida’s rural poor, particularly the children of farm workers. Throughout the state, RCMA operates 70 child-care centers and three charter schools. Wish Farms has been a long-time supporter of RCMA.
