A Farmers Market for the Rockaways

by S. C. Samoy, RISE Director of Operations & Communications

RISE (Rockaway Initiative for Sustainability and Equity) is ramping up for its second season of Rockaway Market Street @ Beach 60th, in response to years of hearing from folks wanting their own outdoor farmers market on the peninsula. The Rockaways consist of eleven neighborhoods with over 125,000 residents and significant levels of food insecurity, particularly in Far Rockaway, Edgemere, and Hammels.
With limited access to fresh vegetables and healthy food options, a market venue for local farmers, food producers, and artisans offer job opportunities for people and a place to bring neighbors together with the goal of supporting the health and wellness of our community!
This year, the farmers market will operate on Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., from June 10 through October 28. Live musicians will complement the celebratory vibe under the elevated A train tracks at Beach 60th Street.

Returning vendors include Rockaway Drinks, Blacksmith’s Breads, Edgemere Farm, Mushroom Queens, Rockaway Microgreens, and Saratoga Peanut Butter Company. Those interested in joining should go to riserockaway.org and click on Programs, Community, and Rockaway Market Street.
Special thanks to the following funding partners: Alfresco NYC, Hester Street/Surdna Foundation Radical Imagination for Racial Justice initiative, New York City Department of Cultural Affairs Cultural Development Fund, and New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets.