California

It's been a busy month for California AgrAbility. The project recently partnered with the Center for Land Based Learning to host the third Pizza for Producers event, a Western Regional Agricultural Stress Assistance Program network initiative. The event supports the agricultural community by providing a space for farmers to connect, and it has a special focus on veteran farmers. Attendees and their families enjoyed a festive evening of pumpkin carving and wood-fired pizzas.

Together with Puentes Network colleagues, staff hosted the annual Encuentro Comunitario, a "Community Gathering," in Esparto, CA. The event was held in Spanish and attended by farmworkers from the surrounding areas. Attendees and community promotores participated in discussions and shared experiences related to agricultural work. A representative from the CA Department of Labor Division of Wage and Salary presented on labor rights followed by a dynamic question and answer session, and promotores shared local resources.

Staff kicked off the fall season with the YOLO Farmworkers Festival. They had the opportunity to table at the event and share information on arthritis, diabetes, and mental health. This year the festival featured live mural painting, live music, and other information booths. This event continues to grow each year and is a staff favorite. They're looking forward to next year's festival.

Submitted by Angelina Padilla