Sunkist Growers Donates Fresh Citrus Fruit to California Communities

March 23, 2020, Elk Grove, CA – Sunkist Growers recently announced that it will donate three truckloads of fresh California grown citrus fruit to California schools and food banks. Assembly member Jim Cooper joined Sunkist for its first delivery to Elk Grove Unified School District on Friday, March 20. This is the first of many donations and provided nourishment to community members.

“As the longest-standing cooperative, we have a commitment to care for our communities,” said Jim Phillips, CEO/President, Sunkist Growers. “Sunkist Growers is proudly owned by 2,500 California and Arizona farmers, and the member group continues to grow, pick, pack and ship its more than 40 fresh citrus varieties to communities all over the world.”

“During these uncertain times, every act of kindness goes a long way. Sunkist Growers have stepped up and I commend and applaud their generosity to help those in need, especially those in Sacramento County who are having difficulties accessing healthy food options,” said Assembly member Jim Cooper (D-Elk Grove). “This donation truly makes a difference.”

Phillips added, “We want to make sure people have access to fresh California citrus through their local schools and food banks, now more than ever. As a California-native, I am proud to be part of this community and thankful to be able to do our part. We extend our deepest gratitude and thank Assemblyman Jim Cooper for joining us for our first delivery.”

Citrus is an essential immune-boosting fruit. According to the National Institute of Health, “Fruits and vegetables are the best sources of vitamin C. Vitamin C plays an important role in immune function.” For example, one Sunkist Cara Cara orange provides 100 percent of the recommended daily dose of vitamin C.

Across the sunny citrus groves of California and Arizona, Sunkist Growers, Inc. is an agricultural cooperative owned by and operated for the family of farmers who make up its membership. Sunkist reflects the values of its 125-year history, with traditional growing practices, stewardship of natural resources, and a dedication to innovation. Sunkist offers over 40 varieties of fresh citrus, and its growers – large and small – work to offer quality fruit that consumers enjoy worldwide.

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Sunkist Growers is a citrus cooperative, founded in 1893, which is owned by and operated for thousands of family farmers growing citrus in California and Arizona. For more information, visit www.sunkist.com.