On a picturesque Saturday morning in Dumfries, several patrons were ready to see what the long-awaited Town of Dumfries would bring for its initial start into the farmers market endeavor. Suffice it to say, the town and its many vendors did not disappoint.

As with many urban environments, Dumfries was looked upon for years as an urban food desert, in which healthy food options were in short supply. A drive through Route 1 and 234 respectfully would lend credence to this, and the council took on this enormous task of changing that perception. Thanks to rigorous planning and effective marketing, they drew in people from out of town and the local populace to the first of many events at 3800 Graham Park Road.

Whether it was fresh produce, houses of worship, or start-ups such as Speedy JC’s Sweets and Nia’Miya’s Sugar Factory, there was a wide variety of businesses ready to meet their willing customers. Even the Dumfries Police Department was in attendance, meeting with local citizens and taking time to answer questions. What made this farmer’s market different from others is that they announced that starting in July, customers will be able to purchase fruits and vegetables via SNAP/EBT.

During the event, we had the opportunity to meet with Jonet Prevost-White, Director of Public Works, who gave us a tour of the environmentally sound restrooms that was built near Ginn Memorial Park. Check out the recap here.

Vice Mayor Monae Nickerson talked about the success of the event and how it drew the community together. “This is so important because Dumfries as we know is a food desert, and so what we’ve done is bringing a resource to a community that needs it the most. We have vendors that are not only doing SNAP, but they are doing SNAP match, which means that people can pay with SNAP, and double their value. This allows them to use cash to pay for other vendors. I look forward to bringing more resources to the community, because Dumfries has been long forgotten.”

“This is the perfect definition of meeting people where they are, and that’s what we’ve done and will continue to do. I’m very proud to be part of a council that listens to the people and gives them what they need.”

The Dumfries Farmers Market will continue until November. If you would like to know more about being a participating vendor, please send an email to events@dumfriesva.gov.