IN ATHENS, Georgia, a passionate advocate of local farmers breathed life into an innovative software that revolutionized connections with nearby growers. Locally Grown emerged as a beacon of hope, blending the convenience of online shopping with unwavering support for local agriculture.
Meanwhile, in Tennessee, Linda Reed, a dedicated bookstore owner, stumbled upon Locally Grown while seeking a grocery solution. She transformed her bookstore into a pickup location, marking the humble beginnings of an extraordinary collaboration. With the participation of more farmers, Locally Grown introduced customers to a vibrant array of small-scale farmers and their diverse offerings. Reed added her personal touch with beautiful plants and seasonal decorations.
At its core, the market radiates a steadfast dedication to supporting local farmers within a 30-mile radius. Customers cherish its transparency and authenticity, recognizing the significance of reducing their ecological footprint. Reed, determined to showcase the market’s impact, emphasized the commitment of small-scale farmers and the unmatched freshness of their products.
As the market expands, its influence extends to neighboring areas, spreading waves of positive change. Locally Grown has evolved into a heartfelt celebration of the South’s agricultural heritage, intertwining food, connection, and shared values reminiscent of cherished childhood memories on a grandmother’s farm.
A vibrant tapestry of small-scale growers emerges as more farmers join Locally Grown’s embrace, charming customers with diverse offerings.
Deeply rooted in shared values, the market has flourished, nurturing connections that transcend its physical boundaries.
Inspired by the spirit of their grandmothers’ gardens and childhood farms, the market embraces its role as a steward of the South’s agricultural heritage. In this place, community members and locals share stories, their laughter echoes through the stalls, and the warm embrace of community intertwines with the harvest’s bounty.
The South Cumberland Farmers Market emerged from Locally Grown’s fertile soil, embracing its roots while reaching new horizons. The market thrived under locallygrown.net. It was the second longest-running market using Locally Grown’s software and web address, after Athens Locally Grown.
But, confusion arose as it also responded to the call of the South Cumberland Farmers Market at Sewanee. Rooted Here, an umbrella organization, nurtured the market and food hub. The food hub became independent, while Rooted Here guided the farmers market.
Emily Heid with South Cumberland Farmers Market said, “Rooted Here was the larger name for the food hub and the farmers market. So, the food hub has successfully sold to restaurants in Chattanooga and the University of the South in Sewanee. And so they ended up becoming their own organization outside of Rooted Here. And now we have Rooted Here, and then we have the farmers market under it. So they’re interchangeable.”
Despite their diverging paths, their mission remains the same — to ignite local growers and share their bountiful treasures with the community. Together, they form an unbreakable bond, celebrating the fruits of our land.
The market’s growth is undeniably evident, and Reed’s impact continues.
“Linda sells her plants and beautiful decorations through the South Cumberland Farmers Market as well. It’s nice that we are connected to her online market in that way.”
There is an undeniable warmth that persists within the virtual walls of the farmers market hub.
Heid remarked, “It’s hard losing that farmers market community experience. But I think a lot of our customers find value in being able to place their orders online during the weekend when they’re doing their meal planning and just swing by and pick up their stuff after work and not have to spend that time shopping around. And a lot of them do get to do that at other local farmers markets.”
Jess Wilson with In Town Organics said, “It is nice that I can know exactly what is sold ahead of time and deliver it to market and get back to farming rather than sitting around wondering what folks will buy that day.”
Experience the heartwarming connection between food, community, and shared values. Shop local, support local, and let the bountiful treasures of our land provide you with a sense of “home” and “community.” GN
