Hale County Farmers Market opens June 5

The Hale County Farmers Market will open for the summer season on Thursday, June 5, bringing fresh local produce to residents of Greensboro and surrounding communities. The market will operate weekly through July 31.

Shoppers can visit the market every Thursday from 4-6 p.m. at 1102 South Street in Greensboro. The market will feature a variety of seasonal offerings from area farmers and producers, including fresh produce, honey, flowers, eggs, baked goods, and more.

This year, the market is introducing a new "Neighbors Helping Neighbors" pay-what-you-can initiative. Shoppers can choose to add a little extra to their purchases, allowing vendors to help other community members who might be facing financial constraints. This program aims to widen access to fresh, homegrown produce, putting quality food on more tables while supporting local farmers.

The market has many returning favorites. Martin Blair of Underground Forest will bring mushrooms, while Hailey Schmidt of Good Baking Co. will offer homemade fresh breads, cinnamon rolls, cookies and more. Matthew Hinton, who doubled his chicken brood this year, will have plentiful baskets of eggs available.

Mary Katherine McGill returns with fresh flower bouquets, and Marie McGruder of McGruder Farms will bring an abundance of organic produce. Jason and Kristi Hannah of JK Farms have doubled their farm size and will have plenty of their produce, including the best lady peas around. Josh Jones will have baskets of peaches, blueberries and more. Amos Hill and Bobby Williams will also return with their fresh blueberries and sunflowers galore.

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The market is also excited to welcome two new farmers this season. Brad Mathis of Mathis Mini Farms will be coming from Chilton County, and Curtis Ladner, one of the area's prolific backyard gardeners, will be bringing his homegrown delights as well.

Supporting organizations Project Horseshoe Farms and the Hale County Extension Service will return with kids' activities, nutrition tips, taste testing opportunities, and more educational programming throughout the market season.

"We're excited to connect local farmers directly with consumers while providing the community with access to fresh, locally grown food," said Pride Forney, Market Coordinator. "Our new 'pay what you can' approach reflects our commitment to ensuring everyone in our community can enjoy nutritious, locally grown food."

The Hale County Farmers Market is run by volunteers and welcomes community participation. Residents interested in helping make this "the best small town market for farmers in Alabama" are encouraged to volunteer. Market organizers note that volunteering is not only fun but also a great way to get to know neighbors and local farmers.

For more information about the Hale County Farmers Market or to volunteer, please contact Pride Forney, Market Coordinator, at halecountyfarmersmarket@gmail.com.