Launch of the Veggie Van program: Increasing Food Access and Supporting Local Farmers

HERKIMER, NY – Cornell Cooperative Extension Herkimer County is thrilled to announce the launch of the Veggie Van, a mobile farmers’ market bringing fresh, locally grown and produced farm goods to underserved neighborhoods in our community. This food access intervention aims to bridge the gap in food security and support the health of our community.

The Veggie Van features West End Farm

The Veggie Van, featuring West End Farm, will make regularly scheduled stops throughout the week, providing a convenient and affordable way for community members to purchase high-quality fruits and vegetables.

The Veggie Van accepts cash, credit, SNAP (formerly known as Food Stamps), Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) checks, & Fresh Connect Checks (FCC).

Schedule for the Veggie Van program runs from June 18th through October 31st, 2024:

Tuesdays

• 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Galinsky Apartments, 105 Protection Ave, Herkimer
• 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Eastern Park, Waverly Place, Little Falls across from the Little Falls Library

Thursdays

• 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM: London Towers, 100 West Main St., Ilion
• 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM: The Red Door, 661 US-20, West Winfield

The Veggie Van program not only increases access to nutritious food but also serves as a vital connection between local farmers and the community. By supporting the Veggie Van, residents can play an active role in building a resilient food economy and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Farmers’ markets and mobile markets like the Veggie Van are essential in creating market stability for initiatives such as farm-to-school programs and institutional feeding projects. These efforts contribute to long-term solutions for food security and economic stability in our region. By participating in the Veggie Van program, community members can help drive demand for locally grown produce, thereby supporting our farmers and enhancing food access for everyone.

Call to Action

We encourage all community members to visit the Veggie Van at its scheduled stops and support this crucial initiative. Your participation will not only provide you with fresh, healthy food but also strengthen our local food system. Together, we can create a sustainable and resilient food economy that benefits everyone.

For more information about the Veggie Van, including updates to the schedule and additional resources, please visit cultivateherkimer.org or contact us at Cornell Cooperative Extension Herkimer County at herkimer@cornell.edu.

Join us in making a difference—support the Veggie Van and help build a healthier, more food-secure community!

This food access intervention is powered by:

Cornell Cooperative Extension Herkimer County, UpMobility Foundation, Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield, Herkimer County Health Net and the Community Foundation.