North Meck Community Farmers Market is Growing Community Impact

Photo byKate TryshonUnsplash

The second year of the North Meck Community Farmers Market season came to an end on September 25, but the remarkable growth and community impact the market has seen since its inception last year is undeniable. Located at the Northern Regional Recreation Center in Cornelius, North Carolina, the market has expanded its vendor roster and added new interactive programs. The market has become a key part of the North Mecklenburg community, providing fresh, locally sourced goods while fostering connections between customers and vendors.

“One of the most rewarding aspects of this season has been seeing so many senior citizens who took advantage of the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program,” Kenya Joseph, Board Chair of The Charlotte Mecklenburg Food Policy Council said. The program’s success was reflected in the growing number of vendors, doubling from the first season, and the welcoming atmosphere created by both vendors and customers alike. "Getting to know our repeat customers really gives the market a family vibe," Joseph said.

Since its opening last year, the North Meck Community Farmers Market has experienced significant growth. "We want to keep growing our vendors and continue to bring product variety to the market," Joseph noted. A new addition this year was the free seed library, launched at the end of the season, with plans to expand it for the full season next year. The demo chef program was also expanded, allowing shoppers to learn new recipes and sample healthy dishes while they shop.

The feedback from marketgoers has been astounding. Although the North Meck Community Farmers Market is one of the smaller ones in the county, they are committed to preserving their authentic atmosphere as they grow. "People love the market’s energy and the experience they have shopping, and they’ve also embraced programs like the SNAP Double Bucks and Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program." Many customers have also developed favorite vendors and products they shop for weekly.

The vendors at the North Meck Community Farmers Market were all local producers that provide fresh, high-quality products with options ranging from fresh produce, including organic and pesticide-free options, and delicious baked bread and pastries. Fresh cold-pressed fruit juices, creamy goat cheese, pure honey, mushrooms, vibrant microgreens, fresh-cut flowers and an assortment of plants were also offered. The market emphasizes supporting small and emerging businesses, welcoming vendors who have been in business for less than three years. "This creates a wonderful vendor community where everyone supports one another, with newer businesses learning from those who are more established," Joseph said. The market also continues to delight visitors with cooking demos that showcase new foods and innovative ways to prepare familiar favorites.

The North Meck community has shown incredible support for the market. Even when the market temporarily moved to Cornelius Town Hall for a special Juneteenth event, customers showed up in full force. "Our market is nothing without our community, and we are so honored to have been embraced from day one," Joseph said. Organizers are always on the lookout for new growers and producers and to ensure the market continues to offer a diverse array of products, they do an open call for vendor applications which this year will start in about six weeks. They also seek out new growers through social media and other platforms.

Looking ahead, the market aims to introduce a few new product categories and continue to increase the number of market visitors. Plans are also underway to host interactive events to further enhance community engagement and enjoyment.

The North Meck Community Farmers Market is more than just a place to buy fresh produce—it's a vital community initiative aimed at providing healthy food access while supporting local farms and food producers. The market is a partnership between several organizations, including the Charlotte Mecklenburg Food Policy Council, Pottstown Heritage, Legacy on the Westside, Mecklenburg County Public Health, and the North Regional Recreation Center. These organizations are dedicated to ensuring the market’s longevity and continued growth.

"Our community’s embrace of the market lets us know that we've created something special—a true fabric of North Meck." – Kenya Joseph, Board Chair of The Charlotte Mecklenburg Food Policy Council

As the North Meck Community Farmers Market prepares for its third season next year, the team is excited to build on the success of this year and looks forward to continuing to serve the community with fresh, local products and unique experiences.

More info can be found at: https://www.charlottefoodpolicy.com/nmcfm and @nmcommunityfarmersmkt on IG and FB.