I have exciting news to announce today. Gary Wishnatzki, President & CEO of Wishnatzki Farms received a national award for his work on behalf of the Redlands Christian Migrant Association (RCMA). Today, he received the Plate of Bounty Award. The Plate of Bounty Award is awarded annually by the National Migrant and Seasonal Head Start Association to individuals who demonstrate good will to migrant workers.
Wishnatzki stood out based on some amazing acts he has done for the benefit of migrant and seasonal workers. Gary created a $286,000 endowment to fund graduate-level scholarships made available to children of migrant workers. This endowment allows these children to attain a great education and improve their lives. Also, Gary has sponsored an annual strawberry sale at the University of South Florida. Funds raised from this sale provide migrant students with the essentials they need to succeed in college. Just a couple weeks ago Gary hosted the 5th annual Strawberry Pro-AM which had a goal of netting $80,000 to help with the capital campaign to expand the Wimauma Academy. The Wimauma Academy is critical in providing education to children of farm workers.
On top of all of the aforementioned acts, Gary took it upon himself to sponsor a day this year at the Florida Strawberry Festival. He sponsored Saturday March 13th and decided to title it Farm Worker Appreciation Day. The strawberry industry is only what it is today because of the hard working men and women who harvest the crop. Gary thought that it was only appropriate that they have a day at the Festival in their honor. Farm workers are encouraged to ask their growers about the day where local growers can purchase discounted tickets for all farm workers. If you need any additional information and would like to know where to pick-up and purchase tickets for this day contact Marcus Caswell @ marcus@wishfarms.com 813-752-5111.
Redland Christian Migrant Association (RCMA) is a terrific organization that provides child care and high caliber education to nearly 8,000 children of migrant and seasonal farm workers in 21 Florida counties.
So congratulations to Gary Wishnatzki for all that you do!