A free produce event that took root in South Surrey has now grown so popular, it must move to a new location.
Ugly Potato Day, an event started by the Heppell potato farming family two years ago, started as a way to help reduce the number of edible potatoes that go to waste due to their odd shape, growth cracks or bruises. It also helps battle food insecurity in the region, as the initiative invites residents to stop by the property and fill up on the still-delicious produce for free.
At the first event, 12 people showed up. Now, more than 4,000 people regularly show up to each event, and the farm is at capacity each time, Tyler Heppell said, with carrots, squash and other produce often donated as well as the events grew.
With one last Ugly Potato Day event set for this Saturday, June 8, the initiative will move to a new location starting in August, he noted.
“It’s the last one at Heppell farm. We’re really excited – at this next venue, we’ll be able to host 15,000 people,” Heppell said Wednesday.
“They’ll be at the Cloverdale Rodeo Fairgrounds, so we’re keeping it nice and close… it’s a way bigger place.”
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The larger venue will host “ugly” produce events on Saturday, Aug. 3 and Saturday, Oct. 19, where anyone who wishes can bring their own shopping bags to fill up on free, “ugly” produce that cannot be sold in stores.
“We’re having a lot of farmers participate and donate their produce – it’s going to be like a full grocery store experience,” Heppell said.
He said his family is partnering with the Greater Vancouver Food Bank as well. The Heppells have collected thousands of dollars in donations for local food banks at each event they’ve held over the past two years, and have donated 406,000 meals to those in need.
“That means now that farms who do donate to the day can get tax receipts, where in the past, that hasn’t been the case, so we’re really encouraging farms to reach out to us to partner up,” Heppell said.
“It’s a really good way for them to help the community, but also, at the end of the day, it helps their bottom line.”
The Heppell farm is located at 4945 184 Street in Surrey. The Saturday event runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the farm, with people discouraged from showing up early.
Those who do attend are encouraged to bring their own bags and a cash donation for the food bank if they’re able.