Wolseley Farmers’ Market sells more than just groceries

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This article was published 14/08/2013 (4793 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

For organic produce and handmade goods, visit the Wolseley Farmers’ Market.

Running from June 18 to Oct. 10, the market is open from 4 to 7:30 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday in the courtyard of the Robert A. Steen Community Centre at 980 Palmerston Ave.

“It’s a make it, bake it, and grow it market,” Sarah Fox, marketing co-ordinator for the market, said. “You won’t find anybody who’s importing goods from countries that have sweatshops. It’s all handmade by everyone who sells it.”

The farmers market was inspired by a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program. According to the CSA Manitoba website, a CSA farm “brings together farmers and people in neighbouring communities into a mutually beneficial and direct relationship.”

“People would pre-purchase their vegetables,” said Steven Bemrose, general manager of the community centre.

Jonathan Stevens, creator of Jonathan’s Farm and organizer of the Wolseley Farmers’ Market, originally delivered the produce from his farm into the city for people to pick up. Eventually, the job was getting too big for him so he thought about opening a farmers market at the Robert A. Steen Community Centre.

This is the second year of operation for the farmers market. Last year, about 11 vendors set up at the market. This year, about 15 vendors are set up.

“We get about 300 to 400 people a day,” Bemrose said. “It’s a pretty good crowd.”

Among farmers and grocers, there are also people selling soaps, jewelry, jams and artwork.

“Stereotypes is another great vendor,” Fox said. “She makes stereos out of vintage recycled suitcases.”

Fox said the farmers market is beneficial not just for vendors, but consumers as well.

“We’re so disconnected from producers,” Fox said. “This was just a little escape.”

“It’s really great to be able to purchase something from the person who makes it. They know about the product, they know what goes into the product, they know how the product will work for you. And it’s nice to get to know people who make the things that you buy.”

Consumers are urged to bring cash to the farmers market as most vendors do not accept credit cards.

“Nobody takes debit as far as I’m aware,” Fox said.

All the vendors at the farmers market are licensed. The market has a permit for the whole season from the City of Winnipeg and the province, which hangs in Bemrose’s office.

“We have to meet all their standards,” Bemrose said. “It’s good that they follow up.”

For more information about the Wolseley Farmers’ Market, email wolseleyfarmersmarket@gmail.com or call 204-880-7551.

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