Southside Farmers Market Launches In Norfolk as an Initiative For Health and Sustainability

NORFOLK

In Norfolk’s Southside community, the Southside Farmers Market is set to launch this Sunday, focusing on environmental justice and community well-being. This initiative aims to combat food insecurity in Hampton Roads, where 1 in 4 children live in food-insecure households.

The Elizabeth River Project is working with Norfolk State University (NSU) and many partners to create a model for equity where we’re not only reducing polluiton and restoring healthy shores – we’re helping facilitate healthier lives for humans, too.

The Southside Farmers Market, launched in conjunction with a new community garden this past fall, is one of the community-led initiatives born of the partnership. The market will feature locally grown produce from Black farmer Thelonius Cook. His commitment to sustainable farming not only regenerates the soil but helps reduce carbon emissions associated with long-distance food transportation.

The Southside Farmers Market opened on March 9th, at 1401 Melon Street, Norfolk. The market is a collaboration between Elizabeth River Project, Mid-Atlantic Black Farmers Caucus, Mighty Thundercloud Edible Forest Breakthrough Glow Counseling Services, and Superfood Parents.

Southside resident and one of the market organizers, Alycia Archer from Breakthrough Glow Counseling Services, shares, “Norfolk’s Southside neighborhood has over 8,000 residents, 96% of whom are minorities, with 37% living in poverty. Many don’t have access to a vehicle, making access to fresh, nutritious food difficult.”

LaQuita Marie from Superfood Parents will conduct live cooking demonstrations, teaching attendees how to turn market produce into wholesome meals. The market will also provide Elizabeth River Project educational materials and opportunities for residents to become River Star Homes, promoting river-friendly practices.

The market will continue on the second Sunday of each month.

“The Southside Farmers Market is more than a place to buy food; it’s a symbol of our collective effort to nurture our community and our environment,” says Elizabeth River Project’s Environmental Justice Coordinator Ru Williams. “By addressing food insecurity, we are not only helping our neighbors but also strengthening the fabric of our society.”