Chicago’s West Side Gets 5 New Farmstands
Posted on 18. May, 2012 by citizen in Local News, Weekend
Residents of Chicago's Austin neighborhood will have access to more fresh fruits and vegetables this summer.
This summer, Chicago’s West Side will be home to five new farmers’ markets aimed to bridge the gap in access to healthy food options.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), defines food deserts as areas which lack access to affordable fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat milk, and other foods that make up a healthy diet.
The markets will host cooking demonstrations, provide gardening tips, nutrition education and will accept LINK, according the mayor’s office.
“It is unacceptable that nearly 400,000 Chicagoans do not have access to healthy, fresh foods for their families, and these farmers’ markets are a piece of a comprehensive plan to take food deserts off the map in our city,” said Mayor Emanuel. “We are providing healthy options for people whose neighborhoods are underserved by traditional grocery stores, and at the same time, providing information on nutrition and cooking with healthy foods.”
The farm stand locations are near busy streets, foot traffic and public transportation to add accessibility to healthy food options and located in areas where these options would not exist otherwise.
Corporations have jumped on board to help fund the program. Kraft Foods and Safeway Foundation will provide $75,000 each to cover the costs of opening and maintaining the five markets for the next two years, according to a mayor’s office press release.
“This is one component of a multi-pronged strategy my administration is implementing to ensure healthy food is available to Chicagoans in every single neighborhood,” said Emanuel.
The inspiration for the markets’ opening stem from Emanuel’s food access conference last October with First Lady Michelle Obama and community stakeholders.
The Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events will oversee operations for the markets.
Farmers’ Market Locations:
Healing Temple Church
4941 W. Chicago
Sundays, 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.
June 24 – October 28
Columbus Park
Harrison and Central
Tuesdays, 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.
June 26-October 30
La Follette Park
Hirsch and Laramie
Wednesdays, 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.
June 20-October 24
Austin Town Center
Lake and Central
Thursdays, 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.
June 28-October 25
Mount Ebenezer Baptist Church
3555 W. Huron
Saturdays, 10 a.m. – 4p.m.
June 30-October 27
