Celebrating National Farmers Market Week: Why Markets Matter Now More Than Ever
1 The power of local food nourishes communities and strengthens the local economy
As Abby Klug of Mick Klug Farms put it, “A thriving local food system ensures food security.” Farmers markets are a key part of that system, connecting people directly to the sources of their food, keeping dollars circulating in the local economy.
Buying directly at the farmers market means more of each dollar goes straight to the farmers who grew the food, while reducing environmental impact. Because vendors grow regionally, their food travels far fewer miles than typical grocery store products, which often travel thousands of miles before reaching shelves, lose freshness, and generate a significantly larger carbon footprint.
2 An access point for healthy food with Link Match
With Experimental Station’s Link Up Illinois program, low-income shoppers using SNAP (Link) benefits can double their purchasing power for fresh fruits and vegetables with Link Match incentives at over 125 farmers markets across Illinois.
In 2024, more than $800,000 in SNAP purchases was matched through Link Match at farmers markets, helping Illinois SNAP shoppers bring home fresh fruits and vegetables. At the 61st Street Farmers Market alone, over $81,000 in Link Match was distributed to SNAP customers—demonstrating both the program’s growing popularity and our community’s strong demand for affordable access to fresh produce.
With recently passed legislation including drastic cuts to SNAP, matching incentive programs like Link Match are under threat, despite their proven impact. The Illinois Governor’s office estimates that up to 360,000 Illinois residents will lose SNAP benefits under the 'One Big Beautiful Bill Act.' Act’. Cuts to these programs don’t just affect families who rely on SNAP, they ripple through the entire local food system.
3 Beyond dollars and data, farmers markets bring people together
Every Saturday, the 61st Street Farmers Market is more than a place to shop. Neighbors gather, children try new fruits and vegetables, and relationships grow between local producers and community members.
So, come tothe 61st Street Farmers Market this Saturday, August 9, to celebrate the National Farmers Market Week together and support your local food economy!
