New farmers market in Northampton, the Jackson St. Market!

This Friday, July 9, from 3-7pm and the second Friday’s of August and September too, there will be a farmers market at Hampshire Heights (the corner of Bridge Rd and Jackson St.) .  This market is the result of a collaboration between Ben James of Town Farm, Ben Wood (Noho Dept of Health) and Families With Power, which has been organizing low income families of color since 2007, with the goals of cultivating grassroots leadership among parents and youth and helping children succeed.

In addition to dealing with educational issues, FWP is concerned with health, especially the prevalence of diabetes and obesity.  During the year, FWP was running Family Dances (Baile de Familia) at JSS, as a fun way for families to exercise together.  This initiative addresses the issue of affordability of and access to healthy food (locally grown in particular).

Like the Tuesday Market, this market will double the value of food stamps, up to $10.

Many families from Hampshire Heights don’t feel comfortable going downtown.  It’s a short walk to fast food hamburgers, soda and donuts on King St. but a longer walk and a change of habit to get to a farmers market. We plan to have cooking demonstrations (sofrito this week, with local cilantro and garlic) and dancing.

Parking is limited in Hampshire Heights, so walk or bike if possible.  If you must drive, park at Jackson St. School and walk over.  There will be a Story Walk posted along the way.