South Bay Citrus Launches to Make Difference during COVID-19

Ella Davis

Staff Writer

South Bay Citrus, formed by three Seniors at Costa, is a local company formed to make positive change in the community, amidst the hardships of COVID.  

Jack Crawford, Adam Goldstein, and Jonathan Graves began this company to combat food insecurity, grow organic fruits, and foster change along the way. Founded in the Spring of 2020, the South Bay Citrus company was launched in effort for Crawford, Goldstein, and Graves to be productive and enact change amidst the pandemic. From there, the company expanded and has reached great success. 

“We saw a smaller scale opportunity at the Graves’ family ranch in Temecula,” Junior Jack Crawford said. “There was unpicked fruit that was going to go to waste. We decided to start a business to sell our produce to local grocers, for example, GROW, as well as individuals in our community.”

The founders of South Bay Citrus have allotted a large portion of their time to their company, going up to the ranch every weekend to pick produce. They are happy to be able to set aside their weekends to do something they enjoy while making a difference along the way. 

“While selling produce was great, the most fulfilling part of our business is being able to help others through our business,” Crawford said. “My favorite thing about the company is that we are able to help the community through our business.”

Of South Bay Citrus’s profits, 25% of them are set aside for the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. According to the founders of South Bay Citrus chose this platform for their donations because they want to support those who have suffered during the pandemic, and hopefully make a positive change to their community. 

“Everyone is very supportive of us, whether it be by buying our produce or sharing our company with others,” Crawford said. 

As young, local entrepreneurs, the founders of South Bay Citrus believe that anyone, no matter their age, has the ability to start their own business.

“You are not too young to make an impact. Whether it be starting a business, or just helping your community, you can make a big impact in other’s lives, even at a young age,” Crawford said.