Bringing Unsellable Vegetables to Families in Need

We just wanted to show you the journey of our "Tomato Express" tomatoes (but it could also be an aubergine, a pepper, or a cucumber).

First of all, they grow in one of Ierapetra's many greenhouses, and once the time is right, they are picked up and divided into categories. Ours are the "non-perfect ones": too big, too small, a small spot here, not asymmetrical, etc.

From the greenhouses, they are taken to one of several auction houses where they are collected together with tonnes of other vegetables. A daily auction decides the price of the tomatoes according to the demand and offer. The vegetables sold are then shipped to mostly northern European countries.

"Tomato Express" is gifted the unsold ones. Don't forget they come from the same plant and are as good as the ones which end up in the supermarkets all over Europe. The quality is absolutely the same; the only differences are aesthetics.

We collect and ship them either to other parts of Crete or more often to Athens, where our partners, like Lionel, pick up the boxes and deliver them to other organisations, churches and solidarity pantries, from where they are distributed to families and communities in need. 

Imagine the impact on the families and institutions receiving fresh produce they cannot afford. Imagine that tonnes of wasted vegetables normally thrown away and polluting the environment are put to good use. Imagine the pride of farmers knowing that their hard work and investment is not ending up in landfills but on people's tables. That's "Tomato Express"

Links:

• See your donations at work and get the last update
• Top 5 reasons to become a monthly donor

As we reflect on our progress with the "Bringing Unsellable Vegetables to Families in Need" program, we are pleased to share insights into our journey and the impact we aim to make. Our initiative is built on the fundamental belief that everyone deserves access to nutritious food, and by addressing the issue of food waste, we can support families while also protecting our environment.

Over the past year, we have seen slow but steady progress in our efforts to collect and distribute unsellable vegetables. While this may seem like a modest pace, each small step contributes significantly to our mission. We understand that achieving meaningful change takes time, and we are committed to continuously improving our outreach and distribution methods. Our goal for 2025 is to see a remarkable turnaround in the impact of our project, expanding our reach to support even more families who are facing food insecurity.

Now more than ever, the importance of supporting those in hardship cannot be overstated. The ongoing challenges faced by many in our communities, particularly in these uncertain times, have highlighted the urgent need for initiatives like ours. Our program not only provides essential nourishment to families in need but also raises awareness about the issue of food wastage, encouraging a more sustainable approach to our food systems.

By collecting unwanted vegetables that would otherwise go to waste, we are making strides in protecting the environment. Food waste is a significant contributor to pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, and our efforts to divert these vegetables from landfills help mitigate these harmful effects. Each vegetable collected is a step toward a greener future, as we promote a circular economy where food is valued and resources are utilized more efficiently.

Our work would not be possible without the unwavering support from our community, partners, and donors. Your contributions make a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve. Together, we can ensure that families receive fresh vegetables that not only nourish their bodies but also uplift their spirits. Your support empowers us to expand our operations, increase our vegetable collections, and ultimately reach more families in need.

As we move forward, we are excited about the possibilities that 2025 holds for our project. We are dedicated to innovating our strategies, enhancing our processes, and building stronger partnerships. We invite you to continue this journey with us, as your support is crucial to the success of our mission. Together, we can combat food waste, support families, and protect our planet, making a lasting impact in the lives of many.

Thank you for being a vital part of our journey in "Bringing Unsellable Vegetables to Families in Need." Your commitment to this cause matters immensely, and together, we can create a brighter future.

Links:

• Top 5 reasons to become a monthly donor
• See your donations at work and get the latest update