Local Sourcing

Local sourcing is the foundation of the Growing Forward initiative created by Gold Star Foods, connecting schools with nearby farmers and producers to deliver fresh, high-quality food while strengthening regional agriculture. By prioritizing locally grown products whenever possible, the program brings fresh ingredients from regional growers into school cafeterias while supporting local economies and creating a more resilient food system.

This approach not only fosters transparency and trust between producers and schools but also creates meaningful opportunities to educate the next generation about where their food comes from and why it matters.

Harvest of the Month

Each month, schools can highlight fresh, nutritious items that give students the opportunity to enjoy locally sourced foods while learning about the farmers behind them. The program integrates seamlessly into existing menus and promotional efforts, allowing your team to operate your own HOTM schedule while supporting local farmers and strengthening sustainable supply chains.

Our goal is to empower schools, support farmers, and help build healthier communities through consistent access to fresh, California-grown products.

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Products

Nectarines

Nectarines

820552 // NECTARINE // 70-84SZ // 25LB/100 CT

Herrera Farms Del Rey, CA, Trinity Fruit Fresno, CA

Kingsburg Orchards Kingburg, CA

Commitment to inclusion

Commitment to Inclusion

At Gold Star Foods, Growing Forward reflects our commitment to building a more inclusive, resilient, and community-driven food system. We proudly support small, local, family-owned, women-owned, veteran-owned, minority-owned, and disadvantaged businesses across the regions we serve, creating opportunities that strengthen both local economies and community connections.

More than a sourcing program, Growing Forward is rooted in the belief that diversity, equity, and meaningful partnerships create a stronger supply chain for everyone. By increasing visibility for diverse suppliers and investing in smart, relationship-focused sourcing, we help schools serve food that is not only fresh and nutritious, but also connected to the people, farms, and communities behind every meal.

53

Small Businesses

34

Minority Owned

20

Women Owned

6

Veteran Owned

56

Family Owned

Meet Our Partners

Meet Our Growing Forward Network

Our partners are at the heart of what we do. They are women-owned, minority-owned, and locally owned businesses. Each partner shares our commitment to strengthening communities and advancing a more equitable food system.

Click below to learn more about the organizations that make up our Growing Forward network.

Sobo Sobo is a Certified Minority-Owned small business committed to feeding kids nutritious, culturally meaningful meals. Our vegan dumplings crafted in the Bay Area with locally sourced, non-GMO ingredients, healthy avocado oil, and up to 20g of protein per serving, bring proudly nostalgic Asian American flavors to the next generation.

Ugly Co Ugly Co is a veteran-owned company committed to feeding kids while preventing millions of pounds of food waste by changing perceptions of “ugly” produce one pack at a time. By turning overlooked fruits into nutritious, accessible snacks, they help ensure more kids get healthy food while reducing waste at scale.

Real Good Fish Real Good Fish is a women-owned company committed to feeding kids with responsibly sourced seafood while supporting sustainable fishing practices. By connecting communities to traceable, ocean-friendly fish, they help provide nutritious meals for the next generation while protecting our marine ecosystems.

We Love Berries We Love Berries is a minority-owned farm committed to feeding kids safe, nutritious fruit grown without the use of pesticides. It’s their pleasure to provide students with clean, responsibly grown berries they can enjoy with confidence.

Avina Organics Farms Avina Organics Farms is a minority-owned farm rooted in community, connection, and a deep commitment to feeding kids fresh, organic produce. Founded by Martín Aviña who trained through ALBA and now grows a diverse range of crops. The farm prioritizes mentorship, collaboration, and creating opportunities for the next generation while delivering healthy food to students.

Sweet Valley Sweet Valley is a woman-owned farm dedicated to growing vibrant purple yams with a focus on quality, sustainability, and nutrition. Their farm brings naturally colorful, nutrient-rich produce to school meals while celebrating fresh flavor and wholesome ingredients grown with care.

Mariposa Ranch Mariposa Ranch is a family-owned ranch founded by the Nitschke family with a commitment to transparency, sustainability, and responsibly raised grass-fed beef. What began as Open Space Meats over 15 years ago evolved into Mariposa Ranch in 2017 to better reflect their honest approach to ranching and connection with the families they feed. Today, the Nitschke family ranches together with deep respect for the environment, animal care, and producing high-quality California grass-fed beef.

La Fortaleza La Fortaleza is a family-founded company rooted in tradition, resilience, and authentic Mexican flavors. Established in 1975 by Ramiro Ortiz, La Fortaleza grew from a beloved Los Angeles deli known for its freshly made tortillas into a thriving family business. Inspired by the strength and perseverance of the Garcia-Ortiz family, La Fortaleza continues to share high-quality, culturally meaningful foods made with pride and tradition.

Growing Forward Map

Our Farm Network

Contact Us

Contact Us