Groente & Fruitbri­gade reaches 10 million kilo milestone

Groente & Fruitbrigade has achieved a significant milestone with their donations to food banks. Since its establishment in 2018, the organization has surpassed the 10 million kilo mark for fresh fruits and vegetables. This initiative helps reduce food waste and supports vulnerable groups with healthy nutrition.

Groente & Fruitbrigade began at Freshpark in Poeldijk. A small team of volunteers started with a forklift and a warehouse, supported by the first donor of fruits and vegetables. Today, the organization has grown to more than 75 volunteers and operates three sorting and distribution locations in Poeldijk, Venlo, and Nagele. This enables them to supply fresh products to food banks across the country.

Milestone in food bank donations

Last week, the 10 millionth kilo of fruits and vegetables was symbolically handed over by Mary van Hoek-Hendriks to Henk Staghouwer, chairman of the Vereniging Nederlandse Voedselbanken. “Groente & Fruitbrigade makes a crucial contribution to our food aid. The fresh products are of great importance for the health of our clients," said Staghouwer. The collaboration between the brigade and food banks provides a valuable addition to the weekly food aid.

Combating food waste

Groente & Fruitbrigade collaborates with growers, farmers, and trading companies that donate their surpluses. This allows products that do not meet aesthetic standards or are not commercially viable to be used. The organization focuses on building volume and expanding the number of suppliers. The goal is to provide a varied supply to food banks year-round, ensuring everyone has access to good food. Mary van Hoek-Hendriks emphasizes that new volunteers and suppliers are always welcome to contribute to this mission.

Groentefruitbrigade.nl

Photo: Henk Staghouwer (chairman Vereniging Nederlandse Voedselbanken) and Mary van Hoek-Hendriks (Groente & Fruitbrigade). © Willem Mes Photography