Tracie Van Auken
Photographer

Andrew, originally from Jamaica, has been working at a farm in New Jersey for 36 years. 

Roberto has lived at this migrant workers' camp at the farm where he picks blueberries for 37 years.

Roberto planted the trees that stand outside of his camp 33 years ago. "They are all equal just like we are".

Roberto has picked blueberries for 37 years. He sends money back to his wife and children in Mexico.

Fernando works for half of the year at a farm in New Jersey and then returns home to be with his family in Puerto Rico. 

Fernando comes from a large family with eight siblings. "Four of my brothers come work on the farm with me. We want a better life for ourselves and our family", he explains.

Fernando splits his time on the farm between picking grapes and working in the kitchen. "I wake up at 6 a.m. to report to the fields until 11 a.m. Then I cook and go back to the field from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. After that to cook again. Then I'm done for the day."

Jose's typical work day is 13 hours spent picking scallions at a farm in New Jersey.

"I work with a smile and enthusiasm no matter what I'm facing.Because in the end this food lands on plates in thousands of homes, providing good nutrition for families."

Jose lives in a trailer community near the farm where he works. He often looks after the children who live in nearby homes.