SEPC Partners with Samaritan’s Purse, Society of St. Andrew, and The Farmlink Project to Aid in Hurricane Ian Disaster Relief

Millen, GA – Due to the overwhelming need for disaster relief in the wake of Hurricane Ian, the Southeast Produce Council has made a $10,000 donation to Samaritan’s Purse. Samaritan’s Purse has three Disaster Relief Units in Florida—Fort Myers, Englewood, and Punta Gorda—where volunteers are helping hurting homeowners in Jesus’ name.

“We are so very grateful for the gracious support of the Southeast Produce Council.  It is a privilege to partner in providing tangible help to those in Florida who have been affected by Hurricane Ian.  The need is tremendous and homeowners are at a loss for where to turn.  Samaritan’s Purse staff and volunteers remain committed to serving as the hands and feet of Jesus to help those in their suffering.  Again, we are grateful to co-labor in this response with the SEPC.”   

~Michael Dukes, Regional Director, Donor Ministries

As part of their SEPC Cares initiative, SEPC will continue with aid efforts through their partnership with Society of St. Andrew as well as The Farmlink Project to provide fresh produce to those who have been affected. The immediate need is for produce with a longer shelf life as several will be without power and refrigeration capabilities for some time. SEPC member companies are encouraged to contribute to this cause in the following ways:

  • For fresh produce donations, please contact Society of St. Andrew. They will then arrange consolidation points to assist with this delivery to key locations in Florida.
  • For rejected loads, unmarketable produce, or excessive surplus, please contact The Farmlink Project who will arrange transportation from member company facilities or location of rejection to help those who need it the most.

“One of our SEPC pillars is helping those in need – whether that is through time, talent, or treasure.  We are committed to helping our neighbors during this difficult time and we are proud to partner with Samaritan’s Purse, Society of St. Andrew and The Farmlink Project to secure vital resources and deliver to those most in need.”

~ SEPC Chairman of the Board Tim Graas, Associated Wholesale Grocers

The Southeast Produce Council will continue to show support for their members, families, and communities who have been affected by this catastrophic event.

About Southeast Produce Council

The Southeast Produce Council (SEPC) is a member-driven, non-profit association of more than 3,000 leaders from all facets of the produce industry. It was formed more than 20 years ago to promote the value of fresh fruits and vegetables in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Kentucky, and Virginia through networking, innovation, community, and education. Today, SEPC is a thriving organization that continues to share and pursue its vision, mission, values, and goals. Learn more by visiting www.seproducecouncil.com.