The New York Times recently profiled local efforts to include regional farmers in the Hunts Point Food Distribution Center, including GrowNYC's proposal to expand our Wholesale Greenmarket to include a Regional Food Hub that would provide valuable opportunity and space for more than 100 local farmers and producers.

GrowNYC, the agency that runs a network of 57 retail green markets with 240 small-scale farmers, has proposed a $12 million center at or near the Hunts Point terminal. It would have indoor space providing refrigeration and storage for 80 farmers and space for complementary businesses like makers of local cheeses and preserves. The plan also envisions an outdoor site for an additional 50 farmers. Marcel Van Ooyen, the agency’s executive director, said that such a hub would allow farmers to set their own prices, sell directly to wholesale customers and keep more money in their pockets, just as the small farmers do. “We think this is a huge game changer,” he said.

GrowNYC's Wholesale Greenmarket, located at the Fulton Fish Market in the Hunts Point Food Distribution Center in the Bronx, offers over 100 local and regional farm-fresh products including fruits, vegetables, herbs, plants, and flowers at competitive wholesale prices and quantities. Wholesale Greenmarket is open April to December, Tuesday - Saturday from 2:00 AM - 8:00 AM.

Read the article.

GrowNYC's Thanksgiving Produce Bags were a big hit this year, distributing close to 2,000 lb of fresh, local produce to Harlem residents for the holiday. $4 produce bags filled with 5 pounds of seasonal vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and collard greens were sold at four locations throughout Harlem.

Thanks to all our partners and volunteers who made it possible! See you next year.

On Saturday November 20th, GrowNYC's Wholesale Greenmarket, in partnership with participating schools, community organizations, churches and health advocates, will pilot a food distribution program in Harlem for the coming Thanksgiving holiday.

Thanksgiving Produce Bags, filled with 5 pounds of fresh, local produce, including potatoes, onions, carrots, sweet potatoes, and collard greens, will be available for $4 at three main distribution sites in Harlem.  EBT will be accepted.  A downloadable flier for the event is available here.

Distribution sites:

Harlem 4 Center for Change 2479 Frederick Douglas Blvd [map]
P.S. 76 Community Garden W 120th Street near 7th Ave/Adam Clayton Blvd [map]
Harlem Day Charter 240 East 123rd Street [map]
Additional locations will be announced shortly.

For additional information please contact Mike Morris.