Company Awards $1M+ to 38 Employees' Kids Since 1997

Thirty-eight students are heading to college this fall with something extra in their backpacks: scholarships funded by their parents' employer. Grimmway Produce Group, a California-based agriculture company, just honored these young people at their annual family picnic, continuing a tradition that started in 1997.

The scholarship winners are pursuing everything from agriculture and healthcare to engineering and skilled trades. They'll attend universities, community colleges, and technical programs across the country, with many becoming the first in their families to earn a degree.

Since launching the program nearly three decades ago, Grimmway has awarded hundreds of scholarships totaling millions of dollars. High school seniors whose parents work for the company can apply, and awards are based on academic achievement. Students with GPAs of 4.0 or higher receive a bonus laptop alongside their scholarship money.

"Many of our scholarship recipients are the first in their families to attend college or receive a technical degree, which makes this program especially meaningful," said Ken Silveira, the company's President and CEO. He noted that investing in these futures also strengthens the communities where employees live and work.

The scholarships are renewable for up to four years, giving families stability as students complete their education. Dana Brennan, Grimmway's Vice President of Corporate Affairs, emphasized that the students represent the determination that strengthens entire communities.

The Ripple Effect

When a company invests in employee families, the benefits extend far beyond individual students. These 38 graduates will enter fields experiencing workforce shortages, from healthcare to agriculture. Their success creates opportunities for younger siblings and cousins who see college as achievable, not impossible.

The scholarship program fits into Grimmway's broader commitment to giving back. Through their GPGives initiative, the company focuses on food insecurity, employee engagement, and agricultural education across their communities.

Supporting the next generation strengthens everyone's future.