Wish Farms and Hillsborough County School District have partnered to bring fresh, locally grown strawberries to each of their schools this March. March is the height of the strawberry season in Plant City, Florida, also known as the Winter Strawberry Capital of the world, so there is no better time to bring farm fresh berries to children in our local community.
Once per week, strawberries will be served whole as a sweet and healthy addition to the school lunch offering. Strawberries are packed with beneficial nutrients like vitamin C, fiber, potassium, vitamin B and magnesium. We are hoping these delicious berries give students a simple, and sweet way to add a serving of fresh fruit to their day.
Hillsborough county school district is the third largest school district in the state of Florida (and eighth in the country) with 142 elementary schools and 90 middle and high schools. In total the district covers over 191,000 students and the schools serve an average of 120,000 meals each week. Since starting the partnership, the demand for strawberries has increased each week. Their strawberry order increased by 30% – We will consider that a sign that the students are enjoying this sweet side!