It is Saturday morning, and as we look around the local farmers’ market, we see vendors setting out their products with care and crafting a display that best exhibits their hobbies, passions, and sources of income. Like treasure hunters, shoppers arrive, seeking desired items such as farm products, baked goods, produce, flowers, and handmade gems. You’ll also see the smiling face of a child selling lemonade as they learn how to create and sell a product. As midday at the market approaches, a melody fills the air as musicians begin to play. Their music is the art of thinking, with sounds for listeners to ponder as they shop. As the market closes for the day, all who have attended find a sense of accomplishment and excitement to do it all again next week.
Seeing the local producers and their neighbors gathering weekly to share their market experiences is great. Each year, the Owen County Farmers’ Market strives to reach our community with fresh & healthy eating selections, educational demonstrations, and the promotion of the arts with live entertainment.
We need your help to continue growing the market and providing community activities. A financial gift from you would be a tremendous help, as without you, we could never achieve so much. You can donate at the level that works for you. Friend of the Market donations start at $15, or you can donate as little or as much as you would like with our one-time donation option.
Each gift, no matter how large or small, is a valuable component of the market’s success. Donations create the foundation that allows the market to sponsor events and community programs, create marketing, provide an educational market booth, and provide resources for farmers, community members . Together we are growing our community, Sweet Owen, sustaining local vendors, and providing education to young and old.
Here’s how you can help
Kids Harvest Dollars Program
The Kids Harvest Dollars Program will provide a fun opportunity for youth to engage in the local food system through conversations directly with farmers, participation in commerce exchanges, and increased access to fresh fruits and vegetables. Kids Harvest Dollars will be given to youth aged 17 years and younger to purchase produce and edible plants from approved vendors at the Owen County Farmers’ Market. Youth can pick up Kids Harvest Dollars from the Owen County Farmers’ Market Information Booth once per month (funding support will determine the amount). There will be no application for participants. An Owen County Farmers’ Market representative will record the youth’s name and age to track the program’s success and maintain equitability.
Vendors participating in the Kids Harvest Dollars Program can accept the Kids Harvest Dollars and redeem them after the market. The youth may only use Kids Harvest Dollars to purchase fruits, vegetables, and edible plants from approved vendors. Participating vendors will display a sign at their booth.
Friends of the Market
Become a Friend of the Market with a monthly donation at the level that works for you. Monthly donations are an easy way to continue your support in small, recurring payments throughout the year.
Turnip the Beet Campaign!
Support music at the market today! Your sponsorship helps us provide upbeat, family-friendly musical talent each week of the market.
If you or your business would like to participate in the Turnip the Beet Campaign, reach out to us or visit our online sponsorship page!
