Thanks to some quick thinking of CDCR staff, and plenty of coordination, an apricot harvest was saved from going to waste.
When Assistant Correctional Food Manager Josh McCulloch of Folsom State Prison read a local news article about Fantozzi Farm in Stanislaus County losing more than 500 tons of apricots due to a collapsed verbal agreement, he saw an opportunity.
McCulloch reached out to CDCR Departmental Food Administrator Lance Eshelman, who oversees food services statewide. Together, they explored the possibility of rescuing the fruit harvest while simultaneously bringing a rare seasonal treat to the incarcerated population.
“This effort supported taxpayers, helped a farm in need, strengthened trusted vendor relationships, and ultimately benefited those in our care,” said Eshelman. “When those things align, our ancillary and correctional staff are more likely to see a smile. (This) can make their day less stressful too.”
Putting a plan together
Eshelman connected with CDCR leadership, budget teams, and procurement staff to ensure all policies were met.
Community-based organization Impact Justice, who has worked with CDCR for the past two years to connect institutions with locally harvested produce, also helped. The organization identified Spork Food Hub as the ideal vendor to coordinate directly with the grower and manage logistics.
“We all saw the news story of this farm’s difficult position and wanted to help,” said Shayne Zurilgen, Spork Food Hub co-owner. “The farm picked them in the morning and we delivered to the sites the same day. We are proud of our working relationship with CDCR and the opportunities it is opening for California growers.”
Three institutions participated in this purchase including:
- Folsom State Prison
- California State Prison-Sacramento in Folsom
- and California Health Care Facility in Stockton.
The fresh apricots served as a healthy, cost-effective substitute for other menu items. The effort also aligns with the state’s goals of purchasing California grown agriculture.
Farmer appreciative of staff’s efforts
“Finding out that these apricots were on their way to prisons made me so happy,” said Denise Fantozzi, owner-operator of Fantozzi Farms. “I’m sure this seasonal treat is not a common one for them, and I only hope that getting to taste some of these delicious ripe apricots will brighten their day.”
The effort spanned multiple state institutions, one small farm, and a dedicated food hub. The result? It proves swift collaboration can yield meaningful, multipronged results. What could have been a massive loss for a California farm instead became a moment of seasonal joy for thousands.
Story by Ashton Harris, information officer
Office of Public and Employee Communications
See more community involvement stories.
Follow CDCR on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.
Related content
Incarcerated at PVSP donate hygiene items
The incarcerated population at Pleasant Valley State Prison (PVSP) in Coalinga held a multi-month campaign to gather hygiene items for…
Mule Creek State Prison donates $23k to charities
Mule Creek State Prison food sales generated $23,157, resulting in donations to several charities. The donations demonstrate the prison’s strong…
Battle of the Badges: High Desert staff ring bells
Volunteers from High Desert State Prison in Susanville were busy ringing bells for charity as part of the Battle of…
Headquarters staff roll up sleeves to donate blood
CDCR and CCHCS headquarters staff in Elk Grove donated blood during a blood drive held Dec. 17. Staff members rolled…
High Desert helps children with winter coat drive
For a decade, High Desert State Prison (HDSP) in Susanville has helped keep children warm through their annual winter coat…
Staff, incarcerated get into holiday spirit
Across California, staff and the incarcerated population are getting into the holiday spirit through toy drives, food-sale fundraisers, building parade…