>Mobile farmers markers would deliver the garden to the Garden State

Even in the densely populated Garden State, there’s still room for food deserts. The term, as defined by the state and federal governments, refers to areas with little access to fresh fruits, vegetables, and other nutritious foods.

The problem affects cities across the state and low-income urban communities in particular. A lack of supermarkets and large grocery stores can mean a diet based on fast food and convenience market fare, which can ultimately lead to diabetes and other chronic diseases.

As of 2009, the U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that 360,000 people in New Jersey are “food insecure” (lacking in access to nutritious food).

The state Assembly passed a bill (A-3688) this summer to combat the problem, as well as to promote New Jersey farms and products. The measure calls for the state Department of Agriculture to develop a network of mobile farmers markets that will travel to underserved communities and sell fresh produce. The program will include a voucher system that will let low-income residents buy fresh food at a discount.

Although the specifics have yet to be sorted out, most likely community-supported and nonprofit farms will run the markets. The program also will include nutrition education for children.  (Knox, NJ Spotlight)

Sun, June 26, 2011 – Sat, November 05, 2011

Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Location: West side of NJ Transit Train Station, Ridgewood, NJ

Ridgewood will be starting up it’s farmers market on June 26th, and it will continue every Sunday until November 5th.

Rain or Shine