United Fresh exhibitors donate food to New Orleans

The hungry and less fortunate in New Orleans benefitted from nearly 25,000 pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables this month as companies exhibiting at the annual convention of the United Fresh Produce Association donated their product to the Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans and Acadiana. The convention, which took place at the Morial Convention Center and Hilton New Orleans Riverside May 2-5, brought together 250 exhibiting companies and more than 4000 attendees from all points in the fresh produce supply chain.

"While New Orleans is unquestionably one of the world’s great food cities, there are still too many that don’t have enough healthy options to eat. We are excited to provide some of these options to the area organizations that serve New Orleans and we are so happy to give back to a city that has been such a gracious and welcoming host for our industry," said John Toner, vice president of convention and industry relations for United Fresh.

"Feeding America extends a big thank you to the United Fresh Produce Association and its 2011 exhibitor donors for their nearly 25,000 pounds of donations to the Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans and Acadiana," said James Borys, director of fresh produce for Chicago-based Feeding America, the organization under which the Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans and Acadiana operates. "Donated product will be distributed through multiple agency partners such as food pantries, soup kitchens, and other emergency feeding centers that serve America’s millions who live at risk of hunger. We would also like to thank Champion Exposition Services for their generous support and assistance."