Lunch group supports Historic Lewes Farmers Market

Lunch With a Purpose Coastal Delaware members gathered Feb. 4 at the Cambria Hotel in Rehoboth to support the Historic Lewes Farmers Market.

Ellie Shue, HLFM executive director, described the organization’s programs designed to support farmers and provide access to fresh food for individuals in need.

Since a federal grant was discontinued for the HLFM Farm to Community Program, private donations are needed to continue the purchase of fresh food from small farmers to be delivered to local distribution partners. The HLFM gleaning program collects unsold food from markets to provide nutritious selections to those in need and help prevent food waste. HLFM is the only area farmers market that not only accepts SNAP benefits, but also provides a $20 match, helping customers stretch their food dollars. 

Anya Phillips, owner of Anya’s Homestead, used her personal experience to explain how the HLFM purchase program provides vital help to small farmers like herself. HLFM also offers scholarships to help small local farmers grow their knowledge and their business.

The event raised $10,683 in cash and in-kind donations, with 1,100 pounds of nonperishable items collected for the Epworth United Methodist Church food ministry, a long-standing HLFM partner. 

To learn more, go to HistoricLewesFarmersMarket.org and find Lunch With A Purpose/Coastal Delaware on Facebook.

First State Community Action Agency will be the beneficiary of the next Lunch With a Purpose event to be held Wednesday, March 4, at Signatures at Bayside.