Members of Seasonal Roots, an online farmers market that connects Maryland and Virginia households with local growers, donated more than 2,400 pounds of fresh produce yesterday and today to help neighbors affected by the federal shutdown.
The company offered a special “Neighborhood Food Drive” produce box in its weekly market and matched every donation made by its members. Nearly 20% of Maryland members added a produce donation box to their orders.
Donations were distributed Wednesday to organizations in Montgomery County and Howard County, including So What Else, Inc. in Rockville, Gaithersburg Presbyterian Church and its network of small food pantries, and the Howard County Food Bank. “Our members really stepped up,” said Glenn Fellman, Maryland Expansion Manager for Seasonal Roots. “We were blown away by how quickly the donations rolled in. The donation centers are incredibly appreciative too.”
The shutdown has now ended following congressional action, but its effects are expected to linger for many residents who missed paychecks or temporarily lost SNAP benefits. Seasonal Roots said it will continue the donation program in next week’s market to help ease the transition as assistance programs restart.
Senior Area Manager Angela Fantacci said the donations also provided much-needed support for local farmers. “Every box comes directly from nearby farms,” she said. “Members helped their neighbors and kept small growers moving during a tough period.” Fresh produce donations in Maryland were distributed yesterday. Today Virginia donations reach charities throughout Northern Virginia, Richmond and Hampton Roads.
Through the end of November, Seasonal Roots is also waiving its $60 annual membership fee for furloughed or shutdown-affected residents using the promo code SEASONALSUPPORT.
