Napa Farmers Market Launches Fundraising Program

NAPA, CA — With a return to normal life on the horizon, the Napa Farmers Market launched a fundraising program June 1.

"The funds raised will enable the Market to offer an enriched customer experience and enhanced education activities, as well as maintain the existing food assistance and nutrition incentive programs that help to feed hundreds of local families," said Cara Mae Wooledge, spokesperson for the Napa Farmers Market.

With the utilization of critical food assistance programs at record highs, Wooledge said the market must rely on community support to continue offering them.

The market saw a sharp increase in demand in 2020 for its food assistance programs, with nearly 400 low-income Napa County families participating. The Napa Farmers Market provided a record $65,115 in food assistance dollars last year, which included its Market Match program that doubles the value of CalFresh dollars when purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables from market farmers.

The fundraising goal of the new Friends of the Market campaign, which continues through July 31, is $26,000 from 240 donors.

"The new Friends of the Market campaign aims to build a diverse community of market-loving donors at a wide range of giving levels," Wooledge said.

While any donation amounts are appreciated, Wooledge said the market encourages local donors to pledge their support at four different levels: Beet at $50, Tomato at $100, Eggplant at $200 and Lettuce at $500.

Starting June 19, market volunteers will be tracking progress towards the goal with a display at each market day, with fun activities to encourage on-the-spot donations.

Friends who give $100 or more will receive an exclusive Friend of the Market canvas shopping bag as a special thank you gift.

Donations can be made online at Napafarmersmarket.org/donate; at the market with a check or on a mobile phone; or by sending a check to Napa Farmers Market, PO Box 10822, Napa, CA 94581.

"The Board of Directors thanks our Napa supporters in advance for becoming a Friend of the Market," Wooledge said. "Together we can build community around local food at the Napa Farmers Market!"

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