Farmers’ markets bringing choice to Katrina survivors

I really enjoyed reading a short article (and seeing the accompanying slideshow) on MSNBC that was forwarded to me by Samantha this morning. It talks about how a local farmers’ market is bringing both choice and a sense of community to a small town that was devastated by Katrina.

Local farmers and distributors are putting together products that are uniquely suited for those living in FEMA trailers such as pre-mixed stir fry vegetables that fit in the FEMA trailer refrigerators, and “FEMA Fabulous Casserole” that fits the smaller oven.

The market is buzzing with activity this day; a continuous stream of shoppers crowded into the smallish tents to pour over hand-made offerings ranging from hats to home-made bars of oatmeal soap to jewelry. Cakes, candy and cookies are offered up by Arlene “the Pie Lady” Snyder, a resident of Gulfport and 10-year veteran of the market.

In the middle of disaster, locals have found rebirth, not at a chain grocery store, but at their local farmers’ market.