GROW Organics
About
When we founded Organics Unlimited, part of our mission was to positively impact the workers and communities who grow our produce. The reality is agricultural regions in Mexico and Ecuador often face high poverty levels and limited access to basic services. In 2005, we launched the GROW Program (“Giving Resources and Opportunities to Workers”) to improve the quality of life for not only our farmworkers but our entire growing communities through education, health initiatives, and economic support. As growers ourselves and active members of the communities we serve, we aim to uplift our communities as a whole through the everyday work that we do. GROW is simple and straightforward: For every box of GROW produce sold, less than $0.02 per pound is donated to the fund which is managed by the International Community Foundation, a nonprofit organization specializing in community impact in Latin America, ensuring transparency. And while $0.02 per pound will make a tiny difference on our grocery tab, it makes a massive difference to our growing communities. Early Childhood Education Education is often not a priority in rural growing regions. GROW helps kids stay in school by offering engaging after-school programs, incentives, counseling, and parent workshops to ensure parents understand the power of education in breaking the cycle of poverty. Higher Education In partnership with Project Amigo, GROW provides comprehensive scholarships covering tuition, supplies, enrichment activities, and transportation. These vital services support students from middle school through college. Learn about Connie, one of our first college graduates. Health Care Our initiatives focus on addressing social-emotional issues, bullying, and anxiety through outreach programs. Additionally, yearly vision, dental clinics, and medical equipment aid are key in ensuring our population can function in the best way. Learn about Jesus Eduardo and his life-changing. Student Housing Through Project Amigo, qualified college students can live at Casa Amiga, a residential facility near the University of Colima where the students room and board, and have study rooms with computers and internet access so that they can focus time and energy on their studies and their futures. Micro Business Finding jobs in rural areas can be difficult. This program teaches the fundamentals of starting a small business. Since 2010, GROW has facilitated many micro-business loans to help launch small businesses. Learn about Dulce and her business. Disaster Relief In 2015, in the wake of some devastating storms, Organics Unlimited created a disaster relief program, setting aside a portion of all GROW funds for disaster relief. These funds can be distributed quickly on request through established aid organizations in both Mexico and Ecuador. Environmental Health Coalition These efforts focus on advocating for environmental justice in the San Diego/Tijuana border region. Learn about the Chilpancingo Colectivo here.
Top crops
Organic and Fair Trade Bananas
