Salem Farmers Market Again Named Viewers' Choice

Jane Lang, volunteer market manager and chair of the Salem NH Farmers Market board of trustees, is proud to announce that the Market has been named WMUR’s Viewers’ Choice Best Farmers’ Market for the second consecutive year.

Lang said, “We are so pleased to have been chosen again. It reaffirms the strength of our Market and the loyalty of our shoppers.”

With more than 2,500 Facebook fans, the Market’s following is one of the largest in New Hampshire. The Market attracts shoppers from local communities and as far as Boston. Some of the comments made by voters include: “The most friendly people and a great selection each week;” “Food demos, Cook’s Corner and special programs for those who are on food stamps. The community gives to the Market, but the Market gives back to the community;” “Friendly great vendors, five farms with a diversity of products.”

The Salem NH Farmers Market, hosted at Lake Street Garden Center in Salem, brings together local farmers and producers every Sunday from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., even during the winter months. It hosts onsite cooking demonstrations and tastings to help shoppers get creative with their menu planning. “We encourage you to play with your food,” said Susan McLean, market chef. “Step out of your comfort zone and try to incorporate a new vegetable into your menu planning. Bring your children to the Market and let them pick out a new ingredient to try this week.”

The Market seeks to educate community members on the value of supporting farmers markets, including the nutritional, economic, environmental and social implications of eating seasonally and locally. Its recent partnership with the Town of Salem human resources office has helped to replace muffins, donuts and cookies with fresh vegetables and fruit through the Town’s health insurance provider. “Many health insurances offer fitness and diet benefits to its members,” said Lang. “Check with your human resource office to learn if the purchase of community supported agriculture (CSA) shares are available to your organization.”

Recently, the Market was awarded a grant through the New Hampshire Farmer’s Market Association to offer a match program for individuals and families who receive SNAP benefits. In 2013, nearly 72 percent of SNAP participants were families with children. Co-president Kay Barretto said, “The match, available while funds last, provides additional dollars to help improve diet quality. Access to healthier options helps bring better habits to the family table. We’ve provided extra funds to several families already. This program supports the Market’s mission and it’s wonderful to see the program in action.”

Visit the Market on Sundays, 10 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., at Lake Street Garden Center, 37 Lake Street in Salem. For more information about Salem NH Farmers Market, please visit www.SalemNHFarmersMarket.org and at facebook.com/SalemNHFarmersMarket. Contact info@SalemNHFarmersMarket.org with any questions.

Submitted by the Salem NH Farmers Market.