Georgia Industries for the Blind (GIB), a manufacturing and warehousing facility headquartered in Bainbridge, is announcing its partnership with the Georgia Department of Agriculture’s Georgia Grown program.

The initiative, which aims at bolstering Georgia’s agriculture community by bringing together growers, manufacturers, processers, retailers and consumers, recently unveiled new products at the Sunbelt Ag Expo 2017 in Moultrie, Georgia.  The expo draws more than 80,000 visitors annually.

Agriculture Commissioner Gary Black praised GIB’s partnership in producing and distributing Georgia Grown products. “The Georgia Department of Agriculture is excited to partner with The Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation agency to market Georgia Grown products,” Black said. “An essential mission of the Georgia Grown program is to grow businesses and create jobs throughout the state.  This partnership will effectively further that mission by utilizing the power of relationships to generate sales for GVRA and Georgia Grown companies.”

GIB Co-Director Mike Jackson helped to man the plant’s booth at the Expo, welcoming hundreds of shoppers browsing the selection of Georgia Grown products.

“We’re thrilled to be a part of this initiative,” Jackson said. “Our state has so much to offer, and the Georgia Grown brand helps us represent our pride in a visual way.”

GIB Co-Director Luis Narimatsu added, “At GIB, we make canvas bags in various designs and screen-print T-shirts. The variety of products our state yields is endless.”

Jackson adds that GIB not only offers a broad spectrum of products, but a sense of community.  Purchases from the plant help support the employment of around 100 employees, 75 percent of whom are blind.  “Our mission is simple,” Jackson said.  “We provide employment opportunities to people who are blind.  When you buy GIB, you’re not only getting high quality merchandise.  You’re also providing opportunities for people with disabilities to advance in their careers and maintain living independence.”

Individuals interested in GIB products can shop at www.buygib.com.  Learn more about Georgia Grown at www.georgiagrown.com.