Farmers’ market sites in Manitoba will soon see upgrades supported by $45,000 in funding from the province, Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives Minister Stan Struthers announced.
“Farmers markets support many farm families and communities, providing the opportunity for Manitobans to buy fresh foods locally while meeting the food producers and processors who provide this service,” said Struthers. “Upgrading the sites will make them more inviting to customers and improve the venues for the producers and volunteers who invest time each year promoting Manitoba’s fine foods.”
The funding provided to the Farmers’ Markets Association of Manitoba Co-op Inc. (FMAM) will be used to improve market sites including planting shelter belts, fixing or replacing canopies and covers, and erecting fixtures to improve the sites.
“FMAM would like to thank the province for their support toward the Farmers’ Markets Enhancement Project,” said Dianna Mae Hocaluk, executive director. “This funding will provide opportunities for upgrades and new developments at our farmers’
markets in turn benefiting their local economies and communities.”
The minister noted the province has worked with the membership of FMAM since its inception in 2007 to encourage the growth of the co-operative and help develop solutions to the common challenges faced by farmers’ markets throughout the province.
A guide to Manitoba’s farmers markets is available at all Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives GO offices and online.
“Manitobans are fortunate to have access to an abundance of locally produced foods that combine excellent quality and reasonable prices,” said the minister. “Together they create the ultimate food experience we have come to know as the taste of Manitoba.”
