Since 2016, the Syngenta Honeywood Research Facility has been cultivating more than just crops – it's been growing hope for the Cambridge and North Dumfries communities in Ontario. On September 27, 2024, this tradition continued with the annual potato harvest benefiting the Cambridge Food Bank.
This year's yield was nothing short of impressive: 3,642 pounds of potatoes, enough to feed over 725 families. The impact was immediate, with the food bank reporting, "Potatoes have been flying out of our food bank all week."
A team of 14 Syngenta employees and volunteers rolled up their sleeves, spending the morning in the fields to bring this harvest to fruition. Their efforts embody Syngenta's commitment to combating food insecurity and supporting local communities.
Zach Hoegy, Plant Pathologist, involved since 2017, emphasizes the values behind the initiative: "We have the capability, the ability, the technology and the means; it is the right thing to do. We come from a place of privilege, and no one wants their neighbours to go hungry."
Marinda DeGier, Field Scientist Horticulture, highlights the unique opportunity presented by our research facilities: " Syngenta's unique ability to grow potatoes in small plots at the Honeywood Research Facility allows us to utilize extra space for food production. Donating the harvest is not only a tangible way to give back to our community, but it's also deeply rewarding to see the product of our season-long nurturing efforts benefit those in need.”
Ashley Dickson, Plant Pathology Manager, who has coordinated this effort with food bank since the beginning, reflects on the project's evolution: “This began as an effort to prevent food waste (tilling under the crop) and to get potatoes to people who could use them. It has grown into a collaborative initiative to use the site and our expertise to have direct and meaningful impact on people’s lives. The bonus is interacting with the Food Bank employees and helping them make the connection between what we do in crop protection and safe, nutritious, and affordable food.”
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