In response to the growing fears of COVID-19, we want to reassure our community of employees, vendors, guests, and loyal customers by sharing the enhanced measures we are currently undertaking to protect the public.
First, we have added additional policies to what has always been a rigorous and strict set of sanitation standards and hygiene protocols at our greenhouse. These measures include the suspension of passive sampling at the markets. Despite this cautionary adjustment to our farmers market protocols, it is important to note that COVID-19 infections are not food-borne. COVID-19 infections are spread via person-to-person transmission and are not attributable to food.
Second, we follow strict employee wellness policies and have educated all ABUF team members on the identification of COVID-19 infections and the importance of self-quarantining if illness is suspected. Our company policies serve to support our employees in the event of absence due to illness.
Finally, in an abundance of caution, all public and private events at Atlantic Beach Urban Farms have been cancelled through March 31st, 2020. Full refunds will be given to all reservation cancellations. Events taking place throughout April 2020 and beyond will be evaluated in the coming weeks.
We are grateful for the trust that our customers place in us. With the full impact of the Coronavirus outbreak on public health, industry, and commerce still unknown, we encourage food-lovers everywhere to continue to support small business through shopping at Farmers’ Markets, at local grocers, and direct from artisanal producers. We will continue to monitor the situation closely as it develops and promise to keep you informed on the status of our business as we adapt to the needs of our customers and employees during this time. As always, maintaining the health, well-being, and safety of our community and the ABUF family is our top priority.