Why free?
Why are the nectarines free?
Fresno County farmer Cesar Mora is facing an urgent crisis. As documented in public civil records filed here in Fresno County (Case No. 23CECG03466), Giumarra Brothers Fruit Co. has taken legal action disputing the ownership of his crop. Because of these legal roadblocks, the fruit cannot be sold normally before it spoils. Rather than let it rot, Cesar is giving it away free to the community.
Why can't Cesar sell his own fruit?
As documented in public civil records filed in Fresno County (Case No. 23CECG03466), Giumarra Brothers Fruit Co. is suing Cesar over the ownership of his nectarine crop. Cesar disputes both their ownership claim and the validity of the contract they are suing him on. Because of these legal timelines and roadblocks, the fruit cannot be sold normally before it spoils.
Are the Nectarines safe to eat?
Absolutely. Cesar's nectarines are fresh, naturally grown, and perfectly ripe. These are the same high quality fruits he has proudly grown and harvested for decades. Come pick with confidence and enjoy every bite.
Why doesn't Cesar just sell to a different buyer?
Because of the ongoing legal dispute over the ownership of the fruit, no commercial buyer is willing to purchase or market Cesar's crop without risking being drawn into the lawsuit themselves.
What happens if the fruit isn't picked?
It goes to waste. Last year, Cesar donated a truckload of nectarines to the local food bank, but could not afford to harvest the rest of his crop. The remaining fruit went to waste on the ground. This year, rather than let that happen again, he is opening his orchard to the community so that 125,000 lbs of fresh fruit can feed the people of the Central Valley instead of rotting on the ground.
How can I support Cesar?
There are several ways to support Cesar. Come pick fruit so nothing goes to waste. Share this website and his story with everyone you know. And when you shop for produce, choose local. Buy from farmers markets, and small family farms in your community. Every dollar spent with a local farmer instead of a large corporation makes a difference. Small farms like Cesar's survive because of community support, and that support starts with where you choose to spend your money. Stay tuned as we share more ways you can help in the days ahead.