Do you know where Immokalee is? I’m embarrassed to say I didn’t. It’s in Collier County on the West Coast of Florida. Population 24K+, it’s an agricultural region populated by seasonal workers and immigrants, and happens to be one of the poorest areas in the state. Now, thanks to the benefit corporation, Taste of Immokalee (TOI), there’s an uplifting, hopeful story that’s tied in with delicious sauces and salsa that are sold in Publix.
The story: school age children of the city’s immigrant families are making and marketing some of the best tasting BBQ sauce, hot sauce and salsa you’ve ever tasted with their own local organic produce. They’re doing something they enjoy, and learning valuable skills that have landed some in schools like Columbia University and Cornell.
5 Responses
Thanks Karen for discovering the most unusual things!!!
Year ago, a God loving man worked with the University of Florida to develop a blueberry which would could be harvested before the season when blueberries are imported into the U.S. If I recall correctly these blueberries could be priced slightly higher as well. He paid a living wage and built housing for the workers, they also shared in profits from a shop they ran…It also was in Immokalee. I tried to find info on it but was unable.
A beautiful story, thanks for sharing it.
What a great story!
When so much in the world is so difficult, you are giving us an inspiring story that shows how we can pull together.
Thank you.