California table grape growers are once again providing scholarship opportunities to graduating high school seniors from the table grape growing regions of California. Three categories of scholarships are available again in 2026. Two scholarships are available to field workers and their families. The Field Worker Bridge Scholarship is a $14,500 scholarship for students who will attend two years at a community college and transfer to a four-year university in California. The Field Worker Scholarship is a $25,000 scholarship for students who will attend a four-year university in California

The FDP Group, a leader in the distribution of ethnic, organic and conventional produce, has acquired Yen Bros Food Service Ltd., a foodservice distributor based in Vancouver, BC. Founded in 1972, Yen Bros has proudly served customers across the Lower Mainland for over 50 years, combining a commitment to exceptional customer care with an extensive range of quality fresh and processed produce, meats, dairy, grocery and non-food products.

Brighter Bites officially launched its San Diego program at Jefferson Elementary School. The kickoff on Sept. 23 marked an exciting milestone in the organization’s mission to improve long-term health outcomes for children and families through access to fresh produce and hands-on nutrition education. The 2025–26 school year represents Brighter Bites San Diego’s first full year of programming following the successful merger with +BOX, a locally founded nutrition assistance initiative. Together, these efforts are bringing a proven, evidence-based model to North County schools and families facing

ShopRite and Wakefern Food Corp. are pledging $1.25 million in food and funds to food banks across the region to support families impacted by the ongoing federal government shutdown and the uncertainty surrounding SNAP benefits. Wakefern, the retailer-owned supermarket cooperative with members who own and operate supermarkets across nine states, said the donation will be distributed among regional food banks in the communities where Wakefern supermarket banners operate.

The Plant Grow Harvest (PGH) team took home the Best First-Time Exhibitor Booth Award at the IFPA Global Produce & Floral Show, earning standout recognition for its engaging booth experience, product innovation and cohesive brand approach that unites both baby and big-sized potatoes under one bold identity. IFPA marked the official launch of Big! Digs, PGH’s new line of full-sized potatoes designed to complement Tasty Little Digs mini potatoes. Together, the two products represent a streamlined approach to the potato category, reducing label pollution on the shelf with consistent and instantly

Farm Pak Products Inc. will launch its newest brand, Francie’s Finest, this month in celebration of the first birthday of Francine (Francie) Barnes, daughter of company President Josh Barnes. Named in her honor, Francie’s Finest reflects both the rich heritage and bright future of the Barnes family farm. As the fourth generation, Francie represents the family’s ongoing commitment to growing quality sweetpotatoes with sustainable, safe practices. Already, Francie enjoys the farm’s signature crop: sweetpotatoes. While she’s still too young to decide if she’ll one day join the business, the