Leonardo Castro of Borba Farms: “Well it’s the way we have to follow certain rules we aren’t used to [that’s difficult]. With people you have to show them that they have to follow rules they’re not used to following,” Castro said. “For us here in the markets it's a bit slower. This week it’s been better than weeks before, but before it was bad. And now, for example, at our farm we are having problems finding people to do the work and we are short on people, which is a whole other thing.”

Under the order issued by Gov. Gavin Newsom on March 19, seeking to control the spread of the coronavirus, workers in nonessential businesses across the state have been ordered to stay home. Since then, we have all felt the eerie calm descend on our streets. But businesses and agencies deemed critical remain open, including those that provide food, medicine, transportation and other basic services. For workers in these fields, the simple act of coming to work has become a heroic act that carries the danger of exposure to the virus. These people put themselves at risk to keep our society running.

On a recent Saturday morning, professional photographer Cali Godley made her way to the Diablo Valley Farmers’ Market in Walnut Creek to pick up groceries for the week. While there she spoke with market vendors and growers about the negatives and positives of being an essential business during COVID-19.

Continue reading for free

Sign in to read this story and receive the weekly roundup in your inbox.

Or

Terms & Conditions

Success! Your account was created and you’re signed in.
Please visit My Account to manage your account.