By Rich Larson
The Riverwalk Market Fair will host a fundraiser this evening at Imminent Brewing to support its Farm to Families program, an initiative that provides fresh, locally grown food to the Community Action Center (CAC) food shelf while also supporting area farmers.
The program works by purchasing unsold produce and other fresh foods from vendors at the end of the Saturday market and then donating those items to the CAC. Organizers say the effort helps reduce food waste, increases access to healthy food for local families, and ensures farmers are compensated for their products.
The program began in 2024 with funding that had been provided through a federal program that has since been eliminated. Market leaders say the need for food assistance remains significant, particularly as food shelves face increasing pressure from a variety of funding reductions and rising demand.
According to Riverwalk representatives, the Farm to Families program delivered more than 5,000 pounds of fresh food to the CAC in 2024 while providing nearly $15,000 in revenue to participating farmers. Organizers regularly bring around 300 pounds of fresh produce to the food shelf each week.
Supporters of the program note that food access initiatives also provide an important economic benefit for local growers. Programs that support SNAP, WIC and other food assistance purchases help direct additional funding toward farmers while expanding access to fresh, nutritious foods for residents.
Tonight’s fundraiser is intended to help sustain the program through the remainder of this year and into next season. Organizers hope community support will allow the market to continue bridging the gap between local food production and families experiencing food insecurity.
The event will run from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Imminent Brewing. The Market Fair website promises a silent auction, live music, inspiring speakers and “delicious cuisine” provided by Riverwalk Market Fair vendors. Proceeds from the evening will support continued fresh food donations to the CAC and purchases from local farmers.
