The Florida Strawberry Growers Association presents the fourth annual Strawberry Picking Challenge on February 10th and 11th. The unique charity event raises funds for the Redlands Christian Migrant Association and invites guests out to the farm for a day of strawberry picking and entertainment.
The main event at the Strawberry Picking Challenge is when corporate sponsors bring their teams to battle it out in a strawberry picking relay-style race competing to win the title “Best Harvest Crew.” The fundraising efforts kick off Friday evening with drinks, dinner and a live auction at the TPepin Hospitality Centre in Tampa. Saturday’s family-friendly event will be held at Fancy Farms in Plant City and is free admission to the general public. Families can come out to enjoy live entertainment, fun activities, and delicious strawberries. An onsite BBQ lunch, fresh strawberry shortcake, and kid’s meals will be available for purchase.
Proceeds from the charity event will benefit the Redlands Christian Migrant Association; a Florida nonprofit that provides quality childcare and early education for children of migrant farm workers and rural low-income families. Over $228,000 has been donated to the cause in the past three years.
"The Florida Strawberry industry owes a tremendous debt of gratitude to our farm workers and places a high priority on supporting the families and children in our community,” said Kenneth Parker, president of the Florida Strawberry Growers Association. “This provides a way to encourage and financially support these families through this special fund-raising event."
“Our farm workers are the backbone of our industry,” said Gary Wishnatzki, owner of Wish Farms. “This event recognizes their hard work all while bringing the community together for a fun day at the farm.”
Who:
Florida Strawberry Growers Association, Redlands Christian Migrant Association (RCMA)
What:
4th Annual Strawberry Picking Challenge presented by the Florida Strawberry Growers Association, to benefit RCMA
Where:
Fancy Farms, 3536 Futch Loop, Plant City, FL 33566
When:
Saturday, February 11th from 11 am to 3 pm
Cost:
Free to the general public. Free to park.
U- Pick Strawberries $5 per quart will be donated to RCMA
Sponsorship opportunities at various levels are still available. For details please contact Jesse Brock, Wish Farms’ Marketing Coordinator (813) 752-5111 or spc@wishfarms.com.