As we enter this year’s season of gratitude, being thankful for the essential work of farmworkers is closer to the top of mind for many.
EFI puts gratitude in action year-round by investing in the #foodheroes who are keeping the supply chain stable and food supply plentiful and safe – and by valuing farmworkers’ professionalism, expertise and contributions. Investments made in skill building, improved working conditions and benefits improve the lives of farmworkers and enable them to do their essential work with more ease and dignity.
“EFI gives you the tools you need to overcome fear. Know your values and be respected.”
– Pedro, Foreman, Andrew & Williamson Fresh Produce/GoodFarms
Investing in Skill Building
When growers invest in the EFI Program, employees receive training in communication, problem-solving and conflict resolution—soft skills that improve teamwork and overall performance at work and can also positively impact employees’ personal lives.
Check out these stories about the impact of training from EFI Leadership Team members:
- Jesus Medellin credits EFI training with developing problem-solving skills he uses at work and at home.
- Claudia Acosta reports increased confidence in communicating with her coworkers.
- After going through EFI Leadership Team training, Teofila Canongo now trains other farmworkers on her farm in sexual harassment awareness and prevention.
“By taking care of our workers we are making our harvest better. Worker wellness is reflected in their productivity, safety practices and quality of food.”
– Jorge Guerra, Food Safety Officer, Optimal Brightness Solutions for Central West Produce
Investing in Improved Working Conditions
Creating healthier, safer working conditions for farmworkers is a practical way to value the importance of their essential, professional work and ensure that you become an employer of choice in a tight labor market.
- Growers report that having EFI Leadership Teams in place helped with communicating during the coronavirus pandemic and with implementing new safety procedures.
- EFI certification yielded simple and effective solutions for safety issues in the field and packing shed for Homegrown Organic Farms.
- This NatureSweet Tomatoes farm reports facility improvements and increased COVID-19 safety measures since achieving EFI certification.
“With the extra bit of incentive and acknowledgement of their work. I saw their behaviors and expectations of one another change and that they were taking more pride in their work.”
– Margaret Stuart, Senior Compliance Manager, Rouge River Farms
Investing in Benefits
As employees complete training and take on more responsibility, they often feel more ownership and pride in their work. The EFI bonus, funded by retailers who pay a premium for EFI-certified product and paid directly to farmworkers on certified farms, is an acknowledgement of farmworkers’ training and increased responsibility on the job.
Farmworkers report the EFI bonus enables them to make additional purchases and provide for their families. For instance, with the bonus they can:
- Purchase food and hygiene supplies for their families.
- Purchase clothing.
- Provide a weekly allowance for children.
Learn more about how EFI invests in #foodheroes year-round by visiting the EFI Our Impact webpage.
