VIA INVEST ATLANTA
| 17
F
armers markets have become neighborhood destinations providing a third place where people can come out
executive director of Community Farmers Markets. “Our presence in the transit stations addresses the last mile in the food supply chain, making it easy and affordable for people to make healthy food a part of their daily habit.” The ebb and flow of funding in the world of nonprofits can sometimes lead to gaps in financing, which was the case for Community Farmers Markets earlier in the year. But Invest Atlanta quickly stepped in to fill the void through a social impact loan awarded by Atlanta Emerging Markets, Inc. (AEMI). The loan program, which opens the door to capital for organizations that support residents in Atlanta’s economically distressed neighborhoods, is just one of many ways AEMI fosters economic development, job creation and neighborhood revitalization. “It truly made all the difference,” says Casey. “Invest Atlanta’s quick response helped us keep our markets open and our operations flowing. It was like working with a friend who understood our mission and had our back. We are just so grateful for their support.”
and be part of their community. This is especially true in Atlanta as Community Farmers Markets has created a robust ecosystem for them to thrive. Founded in 2011, the nonprofit is on a mission to build a local food infrastructure for long-term sustainability and meaningful community impact. It’s a system that makes healthy foods accessible for all Atlantans while also supporting more than 160 farmers, producers and chefs with resources and technical assistance. In addition to weekly markets in Decatur, Oakhurst, East Atlanta Village and Grant Park, Community Farmers Markets operates mini produce stands at seven MARTA stations. Known as MARTA Markets, they meet customers where they are as they make their daily commutes – many of which are in communities with limited access to fresh food. “Everyone deserves fresh, locally grown food, and we want our markets to be equitable and accessible to everyone,” says Casey Hood, interim
Made with FlippingBook interactive PDF creator