Food Desert areas hold Farmers Markets, sell fresh produce grown in own neighborhood – 21Alive

August 17, 2016

Updated Aug 17, 2016 at 11:36 PM EDT

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (21Alive) — The term ‘fresh’ has a whole different meaning to those living in an area known as a ‘food desert.’

Families on the east side of Fort Wayne gathered at the McCormick Farm Market in McCormick Place to sell and buy fresh produce grown in their own neighborhood.

Those living in the area are in a ‘food desert,’ meaning there is no grocery store within a mile of their homes.

The market, which pops up once a week, was provided through the HEAL program – Healthy Eating and Active Lifestyles. The program was founded through Parkview Health and The St. Joseph Community Health Foundation.

Organizers say it is important to ensure fresh, healthy foods are easily available for all residents in Fort Wayne.

“We’re just really happy to be able to offer an inner city market where we make food affordable,” says Community Outreach leader for HEAL and Parkview Health Dietician, Kathy Wehrle.

Meg Disler, Executive Director of St. Joseph Community Health Foundation, was happy to collaborate for the cause for the third year.

“These markets get better and better each year,” says Disler.

One of the ways the markets have made the fruits and vegetables affordable, is by doubling WIC vouchers and SNAP purchases – up to $3 for SNAP and $6 for WIC.

Something new this year around with the markets were cooking demonstrations. Easy recipes were also given to the residents to make the healthy foods even more yummy.

“It’s really exciting to try new things,” says Ariana Whited, a young resident at McCormick place.

Ariana’s mother, Renee Rogers, chimed in saying, “The recipes are a really creative way to get kids to eat healthier.”

The HEAL Farmers Markets will continue until early September:

WEDNESDAYS
McCormick Market – June 22 through Sept. 7
Corner of Edsall & McCormick
5 p.m.- 7 p.m.

THURSDAYS
State Street Market-June 23 through Sept. 8
In front of Parkview Fitness Center
3000 E State Blvd.
4 p.m. – 6 p.m.

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