“With six of our own, we know the value of farmers markets here in Bridgeport. I fully support the USDA’s effort to celebrate the benefits that these markets can bring to residents all over the country and encourage everyone to head to their local farmers market during ‘National Farmers Market Week’ this week.” – Bridgeport Mayor Bill Finch
Bridgeport, Conn. (August 4, 2015)—With the U.S.’s Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack declaring this week as “National Farmers Market Week,” Mayor Bill Finch is encouraging Bridgeport residents to take advantage of the six farmers markets located in Bridgeport this week.
Each market is hosted by a different neighborhood, allowing all of the city’s residents to high quality food options right near their homes. With all six markets open during the summer into late October, the community is able to visit a farmers market five days out of the week in Bridgeport.
“With six of our own, we know the value of farmers markets here in Bridgeport,” said Mayor Finch. “I encourage everyone to head to their local farmers market during ‘National Farmers Market Week.”
Secretary Tom Vilsack’s proclamation was made as part of the USDA’s Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food Initiative and marks the 16th consecutive year the nation will celebrate “National Farmers Market Week.”
“Farmers markets play a key role in developing local and regional food systems that support farmers and help grow rural economies,” Secretary Vilsack said. “They bring communities together, connecting cities with the farms and providing Americans with fresh, healthy food.”
The markets in Bridgeport are an example of this development. Bridgeport’s Department of Health Director Kristin duBay-Horton says they help “close the gap” between healthy food and neighborhoods that normally wouldn’t have access to the products.
The foods available at markets can reduce lead poisoning, prevent diabetes and cancer, and even play a part in making the air cleaner since they greatly decrease transport distances.
“People need and deserve access to good food, and these markets are helping them get it,” says Mayor Finch.
Bridgeport Farmers Markets:
- EAST END MARKET 985 Stratford Avenue—July 12-October 25, Sundays 11-3
- ST. VINCENT FARM STAND 2800 Main Street—July 7-October 27, Tuesdays 12-4
- EAST SIDE MARKET 752 East Main Street –July 8-October 28, Wednesdays 10-2
- SOUTH END MARKET 877 Park Avenue—July 15-October 28, Wednesdays 3:30-6:30
- DOWNTOWN MARKET McLevy Green –July 9-October 29, Thursdays 10-2
- BLACK ROCK MARKET 481 Brewster Street –June 20-October 17, Saturdays 9-1