Oakland Avenue Farmers Market

Empowering Communities at the Oakland Avenue Farmers Market

For over a decade, the Oakland Avenue Farm has stood as a beacon of hope and empowerment in Detroit's historic North End. Amidst the challenges of extreme poverty, the farm has risen to nurture change, growth, and connection in the community. Through a dedication to healthy food, education, cultural spaces, and employment opportunities, the Farm embodies a vision of a vibrant civic commons that enriches the neighborhood's present and future. This inspiring endeavor is powered by the North End Christian Community Development Corporation, a 501c3 not-for-profit organization.

At the heart of this transformation is the Oakland Avenue Farmers Market – a platform that bridges producers, consumers, and creators. With a commitment to organic practices, the Farm cultivates over 33 varieties of vegetables and fruits, which you'll find proudly showcased at the Saturday market. Beyond produce, the market boasts value-added items such as herbal teas, eggs, spices, and jams. It's a gathering that not only feeds the body but nurtures the soul, embodying the essence of community nourishment.

The Farm is a place of growth, not only in terms of food but also in the skills and livelihoods it generates. The market's offerings provide gainful employment to several area residents, cultivating local talents while fostering economic empowerment. Embracing innovation, the Farm introduces the "Harvest on Demand" feature, allowing neighbors to conveniently collect their orders from the Farm's Community House.

Beyond the market, the Farm's impact reverberates through transformative programs. From fostering urban 4-H chapters to facilitating partnerships with Michigan State Fair and Michigan State University Extension, the Farm empowers youth with learning, leadership, and agricultural skills. It's a place where cultural divides are bridged, and the seeds of knowledge flourish.

The Farm's mission transcends its physical boundaries. By establishing the Detroit Cultivator Community Land Trust and launching initiatives like Shop Detroit Farms and the Black Farmers Land Fund, the Farm addresses issues like gentrification and equitable access to nutritious food. The Farm is not just a source of sustenance; it's a driving force of positive change.

Amidst the pandemic's challenges, the Farm stepped up, providing hot meals, emergency food distribution, and essential supplies. Through Food Secure Detroit, the Farm distributed CSA food boxes, pairing staple items with the freshest produce from the farm and local growers.

The Oakland Avenue Farmers Market is not just a market – it's a tapestry of growth, connection, and community. It's a space where each purchase supports empowerment, where each interaction fosters change, and where each visitor becomes a part of something greater. Join us in celebrating the resilience and progress that define the Oakland Avenue Farmers Market. Your journey into a world of nourishment and transformation starts here.