An annual local farmers market has bloomed once more in downtown Flushing.
The Flushing Greenmarket at Maple Playground officially launched its third season on July 11. The market will be open from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. every Wednesday until Nov. 28.
The weekly market at 136-50 Maple Ave. will feature fresh fruits, vegetables and other goods sourced from local farmers. All food items are grown or produced within 250 miles of New York City.
The NYC Department of Health will also host nutrition education workshops in English, Spanish and Chinese at the events through the agency’s Stellar Markets program. Participants over 18 years of age will receive a $2 Health Bucks coupon, which can be used at the market.
Food scrap collection will also be available every market day until 1 p.m. Collections will be brought back to the Queens Botanical Garden on Main Street to be turned into compost.
The annual market is organized by the Greater Flushing Chamber of Commerce and GrowNYC, an organization that works to preserve local farmland and provide access to healthy foods. Cash, SNAP/EBT, Debit/Credit, WIC and Senior FMNP coupons are accepted at the Greenmarket.
“By supporting local farmers and entrepreneurs at the Flushing Greenmarket, the chamber hopes to promote sustainable economic development and also provide our community with a rich selection of locally sourced and nutritious food options,” said John Choe, executive director of the Greater Flushing Chamber of Commerce. “Our ultimate goal is to increase health and wellness in our community by expanding access to fresh fruits and vegetables as well as providing opportunities to learn about better nutrition and environmental practices.”
According to GrowNYC, unsold produce feeds the hungry after being donated to City Harvest, Food Bank of New York City, and neighborhood soup kitchens and food pantries.
Visit the GrowNYC website for more information.
