Address
Downtown South Boston Farmers Market
300 Broad Street
South Boston, VA 24592
Our Purpose
The purpose of the Downtown South Boston Farmers Market is to:
(a) provide an economic marketplace for local producers to sell their crops, baked goods, produce and homemade goods;
(b) offer local consumers a source of quality, locally grown produce and homemade products; and
(c) provide a physical center of economic activity which encourages the purchase of locally grown produce and homemade goods and educates the community on the benefits of local commerce.
Participation in the farmers market is not restricted based on race, color, gender, national origin, disability or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.
We offer the community an opportunity to optimize their SNAP benefits by working with the Virginia Fresh Match Program so they can double their benefits. SNAP customers spend $10 and get $20 worth of fresh produce or qualifying products.
The Downtown South Boston Farmers Market welcomes everyone to participate as a vendor who meets the eligibility requirements. We encourage a variety of products and vendors and strive to provide a vast array of offerings to the community.
We also have events and contests throughout the year to encourage children and adults to eat healthier. The POP Club (Power of Produce) is one way we engage children by rewarding them with $5 voucher to spend at The Market when they taste different foods or participate in different games or contests. We also hold events for holidays and during special times of the year.
The Downtown South Boston Farmers Market is always looking for creative and innovative ways to serve the community and encourage healthier eating.
MISSION & VISION
Mission
The mission of the Downtown South Boston Farmers Market is to provide farmers, crafters and artisans with an opportunity to prosper by selling in an easily accessible local marketplace. We strive to foster a thriving and participatory environment where people gather and have fun. We encourage consumers to eat healthier and improve lifestyle through education and educational community events. We believe that there are inherent benefits for the customer, farmer, crafter, artist, and the community when food and products are produced and purchased locally.
Vision
As a 501-3c non-profit organization, we bring people together and champion fresh produce, food, and products from local farmers, crafters, and artisans. Our goals are to improve opportunities for all in our community by providing social and community building through educational and family-friendly events and activities. Our vision is to:
- Provide residents and visitors with high quality, nutritious, locally grown food, locally prepared baked goods and food, and creative crafts and unique products produced locally.
- Educate the community on environmentally safe and sustainable practices.
- Create a venue for community events and activities to engage everyone in a wholesome, fun, and interactive experiences.
- Educate the community on local agriculture, arts, and culture through demonstrations, hands-on activities, written and verbal presentations, and other community activities.
Market Manager
Melissa Nelson is our Market Manager and she is passionate about the Downtown South Boston Farmer’s Market! She is a 4th generation farm owner and multi-generation farmer. She owns her own farm in Buffalo Junction, VA. On the farm Melissa is utilizing her generation of knowledge to grow some of the most amazing produce and raising a variety of farm animals.
When Melissa is not farming she’s working on the front lines of the Emergency Room as a CNA at VCU Community Memorial Hospital in South Hill, VA.
She couldn’t do what she does without the support of her amazing boyfriend Jason, and their fur baby Macey. She also credits her family for making it possible to do all she does because they are always by her side. Melissa is excited about the management and growth of the market and is always coming up with new and exciting ideas so watch for lots of fun activities this year. Her goal for the market is to continue to help it grow by adding more family events and activities, and expanding the number and types of vendors who keep the Market running!
Board of Directors
EXECUTIVE BOARD
Paige Fallen, President – Paige’s Produce
Adam Smith, Vice President – Pop’s Corn
Kaitlin Fallen, Secretary
Tamyra Vest, Treasurer – Destination Downtown South Boston
Melissa Nelson, Market Manager