Farmer's Market Opening on July 10
(June 30, 2015) East Hartford, CT – Mayor Marcia A. Leclerc is pleased to announce that area farmers will be offering Connecticut-grown fresh fruits and vegetables again this summer, as the East Hartford Farmer’s Market begins its 24th year of operation. Beginning on July 10th, the market will be open every Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Raymond Library, located at 840 Main St. through October 30th.
The functions and objectives of the market are commercial, social, community service and public health-oriented. The primary public health mission of the market is to permanently alter the food purchasing, preparation and consumption behavior of the public-at-large toward a healthier lifestyle.
Many food retailers acquire their produce from distributorships and/or the regional market in Hartford. Much, if not most of this produce is grown out of state and shipped to Connecticut by truck or rail. Under Connecticut farm fresh regulations, the East Hartford Farmer’s Market is only allowed to sell Connecticut-grown fresh fruits and vegetables. This produce is often sold the same day it is harvested.
“Good health through good nutrition is the theme of this year’s market. Farmer’s markets also draw consumers to downtown areas, assist the state’s agricultural industry and help preserve open space and Connecticut’s rural community character”, said Mayor Marcia Leclerc.
All Connecticut farmers’ markets are affiliated with the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Farmer’s Market Coupon Program. They are authorized to accept their produce and vegetable vouchers.
The Farmer’s Market is sponsored by East Hartford Health Department, the Department of Libraries and the Parks and Recreation Department. These organizations and other agencies plan to conduct health, education and outreach activities. Showcased events will be announced as the season progresses and they will include a children’s story time, outdoor activities for kids, book and DVD checkout, library card issuance, blood pressure screenings and health information. For more information, contact the Health Department at 860-291-7324