Harvest for the Hungry is Saturday!

Happy Fall everyone!  As the weather cools (maybe?), colors turn, and the season continues on, there is still plenty to enjoy at the market.  While it may be sad to say goodbye to the warmth, and fresh bounty of summertime, autumn brings crisp air and many other market favorites to enjoy.  Think apples, winter squash, pumpkins, and much more on the way.  And who doesn't love a freshly baked loaf of bread or a gooey cinnamon roll on a cool day?

We still have TWO Wednesday markets remaining (correction from last week).  Our final Wednesday market of the year is October 4th.  Our Saturday markets will continue through the month of October.

As mentioned in one of our previous posts, September is recognized as Hunger Action Month.  Started by Feeding America, this is a month where people all over America stand together to fight hunger.  It is a month to spread the word and take action on the hunger crisis, and dedicate ourselves to a solution.

Earlier this month, we partnered with the Center for Community Growth to introduce our new Market Card Swipe Booth, where customers can use SNAP/EBT cards, in addition to credit and debit cards, to shop the market.  For the remainder of the season we will also offer a Foodbucks incentive for SNAP shoppers, essentially doubling your money (up to $5 per customer).  We hope this new program will help make fresh, local foods available to even more individuals and families in our community.

This weekend, we hold our Harvest for the Hungry event.

At the Saturday market, you can purchase additional produce or other food items to donate at the Market Booth.  All donations will be delivered to the Food Pantry at Zion Lutheran Church following the market.

Items that are particularly helpful to the Food Pantry are foods that will store well, including apples, potatoes, winter squash, root vegetables, onions, cabbage, kale, and collard greens.  However, all donations are welcome and appreciated!

In addition to helping fight hunger right here in our local community, you can enjoy a full lineup of special tents, including...

Food samples by IUP Dietetics Interns, in partnership with IRMC's Institute for Healthy Living.  Planned recipes include pumpkin parfait and corn & vegetable chowder - Yum!

Information about SNAP benefits, as well as nutrition tips and recipes, from the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank.

Kids activities with students from IUP's Family and Consumer Science Education program.

Live music by Dan Stonerook, playing a unique blend of classic rock, country, and Americana - a market favorite!

We hope you will bring the whole family for what is sure to be an amazing morning to have fun and give back to our neighbors in need!

See you at the market!

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