In the world of hunger relief, a striking irony persists: those responsible for growing our nation’s food often find themselves among the most food-insecure. This troubling reality is evident among the estimated 2.4 million farmworkers in the United States, many of whom immigrated from the southern border. According to the 2020 National Agricultural Workers Survey, these workers earn wages of $20,000 to $25,000, placing them below the poverty level. Despite this reality, only 13% of farmworkers accessed the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), likely due to language barriers or lack of awareness.

Food banks have taken commendable steps to address the needs of these individuals by establishing programs in collaboration with local farmworker groups to facilitate food distributions. Moreover, they are sourcing culturally familiar and appealing food options specifically for the predominantly Hispanic farmworker population. In an effort to alleviate fears of deportation, food banks have also been discreet in their publicity surrounding these distributions.

One innovative initiative that supports farmworkers is the Fair Food Program, spearheaded by the Coalition of Immokalee Workers (CIW). This program promotes social responsibility by creating a framework for food growers and companies to provide fair wages to their workers, targeting the core issue behind food insecurity.

Embracing the Fair Food Program recognizes the importance of fair and livable wages in the fight against hunger. Anti-hunger activist Andy Fisher envisions food banks across the nation aligning themselves with labor unions and advocating for viable minimum wages. Currently, this potential remains untapped, representing a significant missed opportunity. With their extensive organizational capacity and the millions of lives they touch, food banks have the potential to effect significant change.

CIW‘s work extends to upper echelons of the food supply chain, persuading major buyers such as grocery stores, restaurants, and foodservice companies to adopt more ethical practices. These influential buyers agree to pay a premium of one cent per pound of produce to pass on to workers as a bonus. Additionally, they commit to sourcing only from growers who adhere to a code of conduct.

One early victory for CIW was to secure a one cent per pound raise for tomato pickers. This modest increase translated into tangible benefits for workers like Maria, who have seen an $10 increase in weekly earnings. For someone working 40 hours per week at the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour, this represents a 3.5% raise.

Grocery industry giants like Walmart, Trader Joe’s, Fresh Market, Whole Foods Market, and Ahold Delhaize (owner of regional brands such as Food Lion, Giant, Hannaford, and Stop & Shop) have embraced the Fair Food Program. Notable omissions from the Fair Food Program include nationwide chain Kroger and Florida’s Publix, which operates nearly 900 stores in CIW‘s home state. Despite the nominal cost of participation, these companies have chosen not to engage, leaving farmworkers reliant on food banks for support.