A new community farmers’ market is coming to downtown Toronto this month, but this one’s different from the other markets in that patrons pay what they can.
Dixon Hall’s ‘Our Fair Share’ — in collaboration with FoodShare’s Good Food Markets and other food security organizations — is launching a sustainable pay-what-you-choose (PWYC) farmers’ market that is affordable and equitable. The concept came about as a result of rising food costs, and the organizers want to ensure that everyone can access the food they deserve.
“Everyone has a right to healthy food, and we want to empower everyone to choose how much you pay,” the organizers state on their website.
Patrons are welcome to pay a minimum of $5, a market rate of $20, or any amount in between for fresh produce (while quantities last). Those who pay more will help offset the costs for others and customers can also donate to someone else’s basket.
“Come get a surprise assortment of pre-selected produce, and you choose your price” the website states, noting that all proceeds from the market will be directed back to the cost of food.
📣 Our Fair Share Farmers’ Market is back for the 2024 season!
Starting August 15, 2024, and running every other Thursday, this Pay-What-You-Can community market is back to offer fresh, locally sourced produce and bring our neighborhoods together.#ourfairshare #farmersmarket pic.twitter.com/68g5dgB06b
— Dixon Hall (@dixon_hall) July 23, 2024
Rest assured, everything is for a good cause. Dixon Hall, which began as a soup kitchen in 1929, has since helped over 10,000 people annually, impacting Toronto’s most vulnerable. The agency supports at-risk youth, seniors, adults with disabilities, those needing housing or employment, people with mental health issues and new immigrants.
If farmers’ markets aren’t typically your thing — this market isn’t solely about fruits and vegetables! There’ll be live music, family activities, food and refreshments and free resources to learn about healthy eating.
The market will open on Thursday, August 15, and continue bi-weekly on Thursdays (August 15, 29, September 12, 26) from 3:00 p.m. until the produce is sold out. Location: 190 Carlton Street (outdoors).
When you’re done visiting Our Fair Share, check out the best farmers’ markets to visit within 90 minutes of Toronto.
