Deciding whether or not to come to the farmers market is a choice no farmer takes lightly in these uncertain times. Even with the many safety precautions that markets are taking, market vendors and workers must put themselves on the frontlines to our feed our community.
Particularly for those who are older or immunocompromised—or caring for loved ones who are⁠⁠—coming to the market is fraught with health risks. But not coming to market means losing vital income, with deep impacts to one’s livelihood, workers, and business.
We checked in with a few of our longtime farmers and food makers who have been sheltering in place since the pandemic began to see how they are getting by, adapting, and planning for the future. These small, sustainable farms and food businesses need our support more than ever.