Produce pop-up market partners wrap up a successful season
Northern Light CA Dean and Mayo Hospital distributed 7,500 pounds of fresh, healthy produce to more than 700 people at free produce pop-up markets in Dover-Foxcroft, Greenville, and Milo over the summer and fall.
“Our first two markets in 2023 were highly successful, so we decided to expand to seven markets in 2024. The feedback that we received was overwhelmingly positive — community members and employees appreciated the convenience of the markets and the quality and wide range of produce options,” says Kate Desmarais, healthy eating, active living coordinator at Mayo Hospital.
GREENVILLE MARKET — Pictured at the Northern Light CA Dean Hospital free produce pop-up market in Greenville are, from left, Nicole Dephillips, community health assistant; Kate Desmarais, community health Coordinator; and Jennifer McKenna, PS-C, community health coordinator. All are with Northern Light Mayo Hospital of Dover-Foxcroft.
The University of Maine Cooperative Extension in Piscataquis County and Highland Area Gleaners were partners in the project. Produce for the markets was provided by Piscataquis Regional Food Center. Much of the produce distributed at the markets was Maine-grown from local and regional farms, including Ripley Farm, Marr Pond Farm, Rowe Farm, Jordan Farms, and Lakeside Greenhouse.
“There are several farms in the area that grow amazing produce, and I’m happy that we could help get their surplus fruits and veggies into the hands of individuals and families who could benefit from adding nutritious food to the dinner table at no cost,” adds Desmarais.
INDOOR MARKET — Taking part in a Northern Light CA Dean and Mayo Hospital indoor pop-up produce market were, from left, Laurie Bowen, community education assistant, University of Maine Cooperative Extension; and Kate Desmarais, community health coordinator.
The purpose of the markets was to improve access to healthy food. According to the Maine Shared Community Health Needs Assessment, nearly 17 percent of residents and 25 percent of youth in the region are food insecure. While individuals experiencing food insecurity were encouraged to attend, the markets were open to all.
The project partners have already started planning produce markets for 2025. A list of dates and locations will be shared in the spring.