The Fulton Fresh Mobile Farmers Market marked the end of its successful third season on August 28 with a community celebration attended by more than 200 residents. Thanks to Fulton Fresh Mobile Farmers Market, more than 19 tons of fresh produce was distributed in food deserts this year.
"This has been our most successful year so far," said Menia Chester, Director of Fulton County Cooperative Extension. "We were able to provide nutrition education and fresh produce to approximately 5,000 residents living in communities with limited access to mainstream grocery stores."
Since it was established 2011, the Fulton Fresh Mobile Farmers market program has more than doubled the number of citizens it serves each year. In its first year, the program served 900 residents in four communities, and distributed 5 tons of fresh produce. In 2012, the program added a second mobile unit and grew to serve 2,500 residents in 12 communities, with 8 tons of fresh produce. This year, the program expanded to serve 5,000 residents in 16 communities, with an impressive 19.2 tons of fresh produce.
All participants benefit from the delivery of fresh produce in areas identified as food deserts. In addition, residents learn about the importance of eating healthy and how to prepare tasty, healthy meals.
Resident served by the Fulton Fresh Mobile Farmers Market program also benefit from established partnerships with the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension and the Georgia Department of Agriculture. In addition, Fulton Fresh has received support from the Arthur Blank Foundation, which has provided $50,000 in grant funding.
Fulton County Cooperative Extension hosts monthly classes on topics such as nutrition, financial literacy, diabetes, gardening, and many more consumer support topics. Classes are held in various locations throughout the county. Call 404-332-2400 for more information.
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