~ supporting local growers, their products, and our agriculture community ~
Who We Are:
The Community Farmers Market is organized by a group of local growers, artisans, & community members.
The market is a non-profit entity supported through vendor fees, WSU Lewis County Extension, City of Chehalis, & supportive community members.
Our Goals and Mission:
The market brings area farmers & artisans to downtown Chehalis Tuesday afternoons. Fresh produce and value-added products are sold directly to consumers. By creating a venue for our local businesses we ensure farmers can continue the tradition of agriculture in our community, keeping farmland economically viable and intact. Farmers and vendors meet and know their customers and become an important link in our local economy.
People who live and work in the area will enjoy a safe, family-friendly gathering place to find the freshest, local produce and value added items.
Wireless Technology Project ~
Beginning in 2009 market vendors will have the ability to accept credit, debit, and EBT (food stamps) forms of payment. Funding for this new project was made available through the state legislature’s Healthy Kids and Local Farms Act and Washington State Farmers Market Association. Chehalis market was one of the first markets in the state to be awarded the grant to increase access for these alternative forms of payment at farmers markets. Community Farmers Market is the first market in Lewis County to receive authorization by USDA to accept food stamp payments.
Customers will purchase EBT, credit, or debit tokens at the Market Information Booth and can use the tokens to purchase products directly from vendors. Volunteers interested in getting involved with this project should contact the market manager.
Farmers Market Nutrition Program - Seniors and Women with Children ~
Since 2006, the Community Farmers Market has been the only market in Lewis County approved to accept vouchers from low income seniors and women with children in exchange for fresh produce. Through the Farmers Market Nutrition Program, packets of $2 checks at a value up to $20-$40 are distributed June through September to participants through Senior and WIC (Women, Infant and Children) agencies. The diets of low income indivuals are improved, and local vendors receive increased sales for Washington produce.
For more information about the Famers Market Nutrition Program:
Senior FMNP Fact Sheet
WIC FMNP Fact Sheet
