The Evolution of the Lighthouse Mission Farmers Market!
August 8, 2009
When we first started the garden project back in April, I had no clue what direction we were heading nor did I know how we would get there. This was my first experience with gardening, so everything with the project was new to me and most of the men as well.
As our crops began to grow, so did our knowledge and understanding of how the whole process worked. Southern University played a huge role in development and know-how of our garden. My initial thought was that we would grow some vegetables and go a few days a week to a local farmers market in town. What happened next was really surprising and unexpected.
The Daily World did an article on what was going on at the mission, and specifically called our project a local farmers market. I had never really thought of the mission as it’s own independent farmers market, but thought of it more as a local grower that would bring our crops to local markets.
At this point we began to be flooded by members of the community who were seeking fresh, homegrown vegetables. We began to display our crops on our large table in the common room of the Lighthouse Mission.We had evolved into our own farmers market without even trying to do so.
This evolution into a viable market was exactly what the Southern University Ag Center had envisioned. It was truly a successful spring season that will continue year after year.
We are extremely encouraged about the continuation and growth of our market for many years to come. The project has blessed me and the men tremendously. We vow to research more efficient ways to produce greater results for the garden and also strategies that can provide ways to enrich the lives of our men.
Thanks to everyone who supported us and encouraged us during this project.
Fall garden and market coming soon!
Blessings,
Johnny Carriere
Managing Director