Coordinating the Fairview Farmer's Market

Since last year's farmer's market in Yorkship Square, I have been looking forward to it opening again because I collaborate with Camden Area Health Education Center on planning it, then I manage it for the summer. I love, love, LOVE farmer's markets. Fresh and local foods are my mantra. I have even developed an appreciation of farmers after growing up in the Midwest and hoping I would never see another cow again.

The farmer's market in Fairview is important and is an asset for the neighborhood. Like the rest of Camden, Fairview is a low-income, depressed area. But you wouldn't think so when you talk and see the people that are visible in the community or when you see the beautiful, historic houses from the 1920s. Five years ago, community activist Sue Brennan and Executive Director, assisted AHEC by writing and applying for a grant that the Ford Foundation gave a five year award to the efforts of creating citywide farmer's markets.

Since 2003, the Fairview farmer's market has attracted the seniors, young moms, area business employees, and the occasional neighborhood boys. The produce options and prices are much better than what the three or four convenience stores offer. In addition, the farmer usually accepts WIC checks, food stamps, and senior vouchers. These residents always ask when the farmer's market is going to start again for the next year.

Now the Ford Foundation grant has expired so Fairview Main Street (FMS) must find its own resources to keep the market in operation for future years to come. AHEC has done a good job with the market in Fairview, however, they can no longer "do the legwork" for FMS. FMS has the task to coordinate the market by planning weekly activities in conjunction with market, hiring or recruiting volunteers to run it, purchasing signs, banners, and flyers, and using efforts to expand it. This requires longterm planning by FMS and solicitation of funds for next year.