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AgGeorgia Farm Credit awarded grants of $2,000 each to five local markets as part of the 2024 AgGeorgia Farmers Market grant program. This is the fourth year of the program, with the cooperative so far awarding $34,500 to help support rural Georgia markets.
The 2024 AgGeorgia Farmers Market Grant recipients are Amicalola Regional Farmers Market, Comer Community Market, Dallas Farmers Market, LaFayette Farmers Market, and Nashville Farmers Market.
The Lafayette Farmers Market debuted in 2023, marking the beginning of a new era for local farmers and vendors. Serving Walker and the surrounding counties, the market runs every Saturday from May to August, starting at 9 am and concluding at 1 pm. It is a producers-only market, exclusively featuring local vendors, with 86% offering produce and fresh food, and 14% showcasing locally handmade crafts.
Market Manager Christi Patterson emphasized that the market is however more than just a place to purchase locally produced food and crafts. "The LaFayette Farmers Market serves as a hub of community connection, where neighbors gather to support local growers and artisans. Residents eagerly anticipate the market's arrival each Saturday, coming together to browse fresh produce, handmade goods, and delicious treats. Volunteers lend a hand in setting up booths, musicians provide lively entertainment, and families enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. The market becomes a place where friendships are forged, stories are shared, and a sense of unity is fostered,” said Ms. Patterson. “Our market was awarded a generous $2000 grant from AgGeorgia, and the excitement is apparent as plans are being made to use the funds to improve and uplift the experience for all who visit! It's a beautiful example of neighbors coming together to celebrate and sustain local agriculture."
AgGeorgia plans to continue the program in 2025 and encourages interested markets in the association’s seventy-nine county service area, particularly those who have applied and have not yet been selected, to apply next year.
