Senator Steven Bradford Hosts Fresh Fruit and Produce Drive-Thru Giveaway

COMPTON, CA – Last week, Senator Steven Bradford (D-Gardena), in partnership with the United States Department of Agriculture, hosted a Food Giveaway and distributed thousands of pounds of fresh food to the community.

“Unfortunately, the healthiest option is usually the most expensive,” said Senator Steven Bradford. “Fresh fruits and vegetables can also be the hardest to find — especially in the middle of a pandemic. That is why I want to thank all our partners, volunteers and participants for the sacrifices they are making to help families impacted by food insecurities. And also thanks to LA Sheriff’s Community Relations Deputy Rafer Owens, and officers Lang and Yarbrough with CHP for Protecting and Serving the community.”

Over 1,800 attendees were provided with supply food boxes of fresh fruits and vegetables, totaling an approximate 21,600 pounds of food.

Senator Bradford in Partnership with USDA distributed agricultural food boxes to those in need through the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. The program supplies boxes packaged with 12 pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables to community members. This event brings food into food deserts and economically disadvantaged communities utilizing the Senator’s community relationships in partnership with USDA’s 2020 Farmers to Families Food Box Program.

Other partners included Senator Brian Dahle (R-Bieber), Assemblywoman Megan Dahle (R-Bieber), Citizens of Zion Church, Ag Link Food Hub, Tri-Tipery Restaurants, and Fresh Innovations CA.

“I can’t think of a better way to serve than by helping those who need it most during these tough times,” continued Bradford. 

As part of the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program announced on April 17, the USDA has exercised its authority under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act to purchase and distribute agricultural products to those in need. Through this program, USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service purchased up to $3 billion from American producers of all sizes.

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Senator Bradford represents the Los Angeles County communities of Carson, Compton, Gardena, Harbor City, Hawthorne, Inglewood, Lawndale, Lennox, San Pedro, Torrance, Watts, Willowbrook, and Wilmington.