Stuart Farmers’ Market is encouraging supporters to participate in American Farmland Trust’s 12th annual Farmers Market Celebration, which runs through Sept. 22.
Shoppers are encouraged to come to the market Fridays 8 a.m. to noon, and then visit markets.farmland.org, where they can endorse the market, putting it in the running for national recognition and cash prizes.
American Farmland Trust, a national nonprofit dedicated to saving farmland, promoting sound farming practices, and keeping farmers on the land, has run the Celebration for 12 consecutive years, elevating the essential role farmers markets play in helping communities access local food and helping farmers connect directly with customers.
“In many regions, especially during these unprecedented times, farmers markets have been vital to keeping existing farms in business and enabling new farms to get started,” said John Piotti, American Farmland Trust president and CEO. “During the coronavirus pandemic, farmers markets have served as essential businesses, helping to connect farmers to customers, and customers to local, healthy food.”
In 2020 it has become clear: America’s farmers markets are more important than ever. [Insert specific measures your market has taken this year for customers safety]
To recognize the vital role farmers markets are playing this year, AFT will, in addition to recognizing top markets by region, offer cash prizes for the markets that finish in the top three of the “People’s Choice” category— $1,000 for first, $500 for second and $250 for third. These funds will be awarded to markets for marketing, communications, and other needs that help expand the market’s reach and impact.
“The Stuart Farmers’ Market is the hub of the community on Friday mornings. It’s a place where we purchase fresh produce, our neighbors vend, and we catch up on news.” Rebecca Adcock, market promoter.
To learn more and participate, visit markets.farmland.org today The Stuart Farmers’ Market. The Market provides so many opportunities for our community from our weekly market, location of the Youth Rise and Shine market and our ever-popular Mistletoe Market during Christmas.
