A resource fair to help local farmworkers will be held Sunday in Windsor, according to Sonoma County officials.
The first-ever such fair in Sonoma County will connect farmworkers to over 40 government agencies, nonprofits and advocacy groups that can provide support with housing, food, health care, employment, immigration law, tax preparation and more, county officials said.
“Farmworkers put fresh food on our tables and play an essential role in Sonoma County’s world-renowned wine industry, yet too many struggle to feed themselves and their families over winter when work slows between the end of harvest and the start of the new growing season,” Sonoma County Board of Supervisors chair David Rabbitt said in a statement. “With this resource fair, we are trying a new approach to support local farm laborers when they need help the most.”
“Farmworkers put fresh food on our tables … yet too many struggle to feed themselves and their families over winter when work slows between the end of harvest and the start of the new growing season.” Supervisor David Rabbitt
During the resource fair, free meals will be provided to the first 200 farmworkers, and Redwood Empire Food Bank will distribute fresh produce and other food to them. They will also be given a chance to participate in a raffle for gift cards that can be used to purchase gas, food, clothing and other necessities.
Free health screenings and opportunities to obtain health care will also be available.
District 4 Supervisor James Gore, who represents the Windsor area, said local farmworkers are the “backbone of Sonoma County agriculture, and yet far too many remain disconnected from vital programs and services.”
“This resource fair provides a starting point to connect the dots and do better,” Gore said.
The fair will take place from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, Mary Agatha Furth Center at 8400 Old Redwood Highway, county officials said.