COACHELLA, Calif. — Fresh, locally-grown fruits and vegetables are coming back to downtown Coachella, starting this coming Saturday, October 20, when the Palm Springs Cultural Center’s Certified Farmers’ Market returns for its 2012/13 season.
“We are so happy to be back in downtown Coachella,” said Certified Farmers’ Market General Manager Paul Palodichuk. “Bringing healthy, fresh and locally-grown produce to Coachella area residents at an affordable price is an important part of our mission.”
The Coachella Certified Farmers’ Market will once again be located on Sixth Street in front of the Coachella City Hall. It will open at 9 a.m. every Saturday morning and remain open until 1 p.m. In addition to fresh produce, the Coachella Certified Farmers’ Market will feature fresh-baked breads, fresh California-grown flowers, locally roasted coffee, Mexican cocoa and more. There will also be local entertainment, chefs’ demonstrations, kids’ activities, an ongoing health component, and a weekly Community Spotlight.
Special Opportunity for Qualified EBT, WIC and/or SFMNP Customers
Qualified EBT, WIC and/or SFMNP Customers who visit the market and spend up to $10, will be able to get up to $10 in matching (free) Market Dollars every week.
“We want to provide a way for Qualified EBT, WIC and/or SFMNP Customers to have access to the fresh produce that’s available at the market,” said Armando Sepeda, Coachella Market Manager. “The matching funds program makes that possible.”
The mission of the non-profit Palm Springs Cultural Center and its Certified Farmers’ Market Program does not end with their weekly markets. Rather, it extends into the local community.
“We have an active education program designed to introduce elementary school children to the Market, and explain the benefits of healthier eating. We also look for local farms, and try to get them involved in the markets,” Palodichuk noted. “Right now, we’re actively looking for additional farms to join us.”
The Coachella Certified Farmers’ Market is sponsored in part by the Palm Springs Cultural Center, the City of Coachella, The California Endowment, Rabobank, Wholesome Wave and Kaiser Permanente. For additional information, contact the Coachella Certified Farmers Market at (760)777-3680 or email Armando Sepeda at [email protected] or visit us online at www.certifiedfarmersmarket.org.
