Plans in works for Farmers Market

The Rockmart market gets a $100,000 grant for improvements.

ROCKMART — The Rockmart Farmers Market is scheduled to open on Thursday, May 5, with plans to expand programs and activities in 2016.

During the past year, the market received a USDA grant totaling $100,000. This money will be used to help improve not only the organization but the local food and family system.

One project is improving the kitchen space in The Silver Comet Trailhead building in downtown Rockmart. The space will be used for cooking classes focusing on food preservation and preparation.

Work has begun with the removal of cabinets from the kitchen. After the walls are painted, a new sink cabinet and stainless steel tables will be installed. The tables can be pulled into the center to create individual work stations for learning.

A grand opening date and the first cooking class will be announced in the near future.

Chairman Shonna Kirkpatrick said RFM also will open an online market this year.

She said many people are working when the RFM is open and the online market will help more of them have access to locally produced goods.

“The online market will be set up for ordering during regular market hours, your order will then be delivered to drop off spots around town that will allow people to pick up at a convenient location and time,” she said. “Delivery spots can be set up where you work if there are enough regularl orders from the same location.”

Additionally, the online store will be centered around the individual farmers so you will know who grew your produce even when buying online. RFM will work during the next several weeks to get the online store ready for spring and summer.

Farmers and food producers who wish to be considered for the market should begin submitting applications now. Applications can be printed from the website www.RockmartFarmersMarket.com, by calling 404-4361818, or sending an email with your mailing address to RockmartFarmersMarket@gmail.com.

Vendors must be located within 60 miles of Polk County and some products can be baked in your home kitchen. Guidelines can be found along with the application or call with questions.

Visit polkstandardjournal.com for more news.