Communities in rural banana growing regions oftentimes experience poverty that makes even daily life challenging. GROW by Organics Unlimited seeks to change that by donating a portion of the proceeds of every GROW banana to these communities. Because of GROW’s commitment to the community and in keeping with its ideals of service and sustainability, GROW by Organics Unlimited has been able to implement a culture that advocates quality of life for its farming communities. For over 10 years, GROW has helmed various projects in Colima, a rural state on the west coast of Mexico.

Every time a GROW organic banana is purchased, funds are generated to help these communities. In Mexico, GROW has partnered with Project Amigo, an organization based in Colima, Mexico. Project Amigo helps disadvantaged and marginalized children achieve their highest potential by providing assistance in education through material support, enrichment activities and healthcare services not otherwise available to them. Promising students in need are identified by their teachers, whom notify Project Amigo. The students then receive scholarships that help to pay for uniforms, textbooks and other educational supplies. Advanced students enrolled in university courses receive room and board at Casa Amiga, a safe and secure private house for students that cannot afford to live near the University of Colima.

GROW not only facilitates educational opportunities for children and youth in Colima, but also provides for other programs that help increase quality of life for all community members. A vision care program allows community members to receive free eye exams and glasses. Many times just the simple gift of a pair of glasses can help transform the life of someone, as is shown in the story of Rafa, a student who was able to continue his studies due to the gift of glasses. Dental care is also made possible through GROW funds. Members of the community are now able to have examinations, learn about dental hygiene, receive fluoride treatments and get new toothbrushes. Health clinics also receive funding from GROW, and this year mobile health education street teams were introduced as part of the services GROW funds.

Thanks to these programs many disadvantaged people can receive basic goods and services they otherwise would not. Many times, these are the same goods and services we take for granted, but for too many people, they represent a daily struggle. GROW by Organics Unlimited is committed to lessening that struggle, but can only do that with your help. September is especially important because it is GROW month, and we need your help in spreading the word. We encourage you to share #GROWmonth on your social media posts as well as encourage the purchase of GROW organic bananas year round. Together we can make a difference towards building more sustainable communities.

To learn more about our organic bananas and how you can offer Organics Unlimited and GROW organic bananas in your store, please visit OrganicsUnlimited.com. You may also follow Organics Unlimited on Facebook and Twitter for more news.