Among many other things, he was a great advocate of farmers’ markets and social food schemes designed to connect farmers to affordable local markets, supplying local and sustainable fresh food – especially fruit and vegetables – to the people who need it most.
The Alexandra Rose Vouchers scheme (run by Sustain member the Alexandra Rose Charities, and promoted by Sustain’s food poverty and London Food Link projects) was set up as a result of a visit by Gus Schumacher to the UK. On that occasion he provoked fantastic conversations about practical responses to food poverty and diet-related health, which could benefit both food producers and consumers.
Here is the tribute from the Alexandra Rose Charities, from director Jonathan Pauling:
"Gus was a towering figure in food access and it was his fortuitous visit to the United Kingdom in 2012 that set the spark for the development of the Rose Vouchers for Fruit & Veg project and a whole new chapter in the 105 year history of Alexandra Rose Charity." Read their full tribute here.
Here is the tribute from Wholesome Wave, Gus Schumacher’s organisation in the US:
'It is with deep sadness that we share the news that Gus Schumacher passed unexpectedly of a heart attack last night. The good food movement, the agricultural sector, and the world at large has lost one of the most magnificent advocates ever known. Gus leaves an immeasurable legacy: his vision and work improved the lives of untold numbers of farmers and farms of all sizes, and eaters of all incomes. The world is a far better place because of him.' Read more about Gus's life and work here.
Food Poverty: Championning people-powered projects that tackle the root causes of food poverty.
