The month of June marks the two-year anniversary of OurHarvest, and to celebrate it is doubling the number of meals it donates to Port Washington’s food pantries during the month, officials said.
OurHarvest, a local online farmers’ market, was founded in 2014 by Scott Reich and Mike Winik, childhood friends, Roslyn natives, and college roommates.
Winik said the company was formed to bring the community together around food.
According to Winik, their novel approach includes eliminating brick-and-mortar stores and unnecessary middlemen to ensure that products get to customers from nearby suppliers as quickly as possible, which makes for fresher, more nutritious food – while still being affordable. Their focus is on all-natural products that don’t contain any hormones, antibiotics or artificial additives.
The company, which says it sells a selection of fresh, top-quality products from local vendors, donates a meal to a local pantry for every order it receives above $25.
“In our first two years in business, we’ve increased our product line to carry hundreds of items ranging from fresh meats and seafood, to delicious produce and dairy, to great artisanal products,’’ he said. “We’ve also added several organic, gluten-free and soy-free products to the mix as well, with more on the way.”
Weekly food donations based on orders received go to St. Peter’s Outreach and Our Lady of Fatima Pantry in Port Washington.
“Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all you do, not only for the less fortunate in the Port Washington community, but throughout all of Long Island and beyond, and for your strong resolve to conquering the battle against hunger,” said Lourdes Taglialatela, director of parish social ministry at St. Peter of Alcantara Church.
Sister Kathy Somerville of Our Lady of Fatima Outreach added, “What a joy it has been working with you. Your philanthropy has enabled us to provide fresh meats, vegetables, and dairy products to our clients. Items that we typically are not able to offer. You are doing a great job to help wipe out hunger in our community.”
In addition to offering double food donations in June, OurHarvest continues to give back to Port Washington by sponsoring local summer events, having recently sponsored Karmacue and HarborFest. OurHarvest will also have a booth at Cinema on the Bay and the Parent Resource Center’s Summer Concert Series.
“We love supporting the community and being part of the giving spirit that defines Port Washington,” added Reich. “This is a special place, and we’re really proud and humbled to be part of it.”
OurHarvest delivers in Port Washington five times a week – Mondays from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.; Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to noon; Wednesdays and Thursdays from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.; and Fridays from 4 to 6 p.m.
Pick-up location is at St. Peter’s Parish Outreach, 1327 Port Washington Blvd., Port Washington.
