In an effort to address the food desert challenge faced by residents of New Kensington, Pennsylvania, a new weekly farmers market is set to launch. The initiative aims to provide fresh produce and prepared foods directly to the community, complementing an existing shuttle service that transports residents to grocery stores. Organizers hope this will not only improve access to healthy food options but also foster a sense of community. The market will run from April through October, featuring local vendors offering a variety of goods. Additionally, organizers are working to accept SNAP benefits and enhance their value, making the market an affordable option for all residents.

Details of the New Farmers Market in New Kensington

In the heart of New Kensington, a vibrant weekly farmers market is poised to open its doors, bringing much-needed fresh produce and prepared foods to the community. Located at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and 10th Street, the market will operate every Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon, starting on April 19 and running until October 25. This initiative comes as a response to the city’s lack of a grocery store since 2020, when the last Shop ’n Save closed its doors.

Meredith Hedeen, a dedicated volunteer with the New Ken Downtown Partnership and owner of Ethical Hope on Fifth Avenue, explained that the market’s primary goal is to make fresh, nutritious food accessible to everyone in the community. “We want to create a space where both those who can easily access these items and those who cannot have equal opportunities,” she said. Beyond providing food, the market aims to serve as a gathering place, fostering connections among residents around shared interests.

The market is also applying to become a Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) retailer, according to Michelle Thom, president of the New Ken Downtown Partnership. “We’re exploring ways to increase the value of SNAP funds through additional programs, which will make shopping at the market more cost-effective for our SNAP users,” Thom noted. Vendors selling fresh local produce, meat, dairy, baked goods, and more are encouraged to apply by March 1 to participate in the market.

While efforts to establish a permanent grocery store in downtown New Kensington have yet to materialize, the Fresh Food Shuttle service has been a lifeline for many residents. Launched in 2023, this service offers free door-to-door transportation to grocery stores and food banks for residents aged 18 and older in New Kensington, Arnold, and Lower Burrell. Running on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the shuttle has significantly improved access to essential food items.

This combination of initiatives underscores the community’s commitment to ensuring that all residents have access to healthy, nutritious food options without having to travel long distances or rely on inconvenient transportation methods.

From a journalist's perspective, this development highlights the importance of community-driven solutions in addressing food insecurity. By creating a space that not only provides essential resources but also fosters social interaction, the New Kensington farmers market sets a powerful example of how local partnerships can transform a food desert into a thriving, supportive environment. It reminds us that sometimes, the most impactful changes come from grassroots efforts that prioritize the needs of the community.