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A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on Wednesday, Sept. 4 at the Washington City Market at the corner of 6th and North Market Streets. It was to recognize a new partnership between Ripe for Revival, a nonprofit that operates a fleet of pay-what-you-can mobile markets to address food insecurity in North Carolina, and Washington-based Flatlands Insurance Group, which specializes in the agricultural segment. 

“Ripe for Revival relies heavily on partnerships, like the one we now have with Flatlands Insurance Group,” said Will Kornegay, founder of Ripe for Revival. “These sponsorships and partnerships help to cover our infrastructure costs and the cost of bringing fresh affordable produce and premium fresh meat, eggs, and milk to communities that we serve, creating a sense of dignity and dignified access to underserved families.”

Paige Allen Harris, one of the principals at Flatlands Insurance Group, said it seemed like a perfect fit for them as both companies share a common core value of giving back to the community. “We believe you are only as good as what you give back to those who have helped you succeed,” said Harris. “We are so impressed that they pay a fair wage to farmers and also provide quality food in a pay-what-you-can model. They do this by going in and retrieving the produce after first picking, which increases the farmer’s income and reduces food waste. It doesn’t make sense that North Carolina is in the top ten in food production, and also in the top ten in food insecurity. Together we can make a difference and continue to grow and expand.”

Ripe for Revival currently serves 18 sites in Eastern North Carolina, including Beaufort County, and hopes to expand that to 25 by the end of the year. You can find the mobile market each Wednesday afternoon from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Washington City Market at 6th and Market Streets.

Those attending the ribbon cutting were representatives from Ripe for Revival, Flatlands Insurance Group, officials from the City of Washington, and local citizens.