>Due to the generosity of fresh-packer Wada Farms in Pingree, ID, nearly 100,000 pounds of potatoes have been given to Idaho and Utah food banks.
The diversion made in early April supplied food banks from Lewiston and Boise, ID, to several in Utah.
The 49 tons were diverted when orders were cancelled. But when Jerry Pacheco, warehouse foreman at Wada Farms, realized the situation, he was given permission to divert the loads for charity.
It so happens that Pacheco’s brother, who works at a food bank warehouse in Pocatello, ID, had told his brother of an unmet need. Owners Albert and Bryan Wada readily agreed to the donation.
At the Pocatello food bank, 17,800 pounds have been passed out to 700 families and 39 distribution agencies.