MMJ 3631
The organizer of a local farmers market reveals what changes to expect by next year and vendors give a closer look at their merchandise
STATESBORO, GA—The Main St. farmers market continues to see an uptick in sales a week prior to closing. Locals give insight into expectations for another successful year.
The farmers market has operated for 15 years in downtown Statesboro. It was initially located at the Synovus bank parking lot but made its way to the new indoor/outdoor facility in spring 2022---with an overflow of guests.
The market is located at 222 S. Main St. in a 7,000-foot warehouse facility.
“There’s so much growth for the farmers market and downtown Statesboro. I look forward to what the future of this community will look like,” owner of Ma’s Country Pantry Samuel Hoover said.
The manager of the local market Willow Farmer has a structured plan for future advancements. “Ultimately we’re trying to add on and be a part of the blue mile expansion. Connecting the Blind Willie McTell Trail with a boardwalk by next year is underway,” said Farmer. She talked further about partnering with Serve 912 to provide students transportation from campus to the market.
Pre covid, Serve 912 worked closely with the market in recruiting volunteers.“They're a standing community with our office---a great community resource, so we work hard to give students access to their products,” Community Engagement Coordinator of Serve 912, Emily Tanner said.
Serve 912 is a part of the office of Leadership and Engagement. They share a lot of similar values with the market regarding community and sustainability.
Although, during the pandemic, the Serve 912 staff didn't find it reasonable to keep the shuttle van operating due to a lack of student engagement.
GSU transportation will return next year under an established program.
In the meantime, market 2 go is the online portal available for purchasing goods and handpicked favorites between Friday and Tuesday. Groceries can physically be picked up from the Main St. market or directly delivered to the residency.
The Statesboro Farmers Market will close on Nov.19 and reopen in April of 2023.