N L F R

2101 L Street NW, Suite 300 | Washington D.C. 20037 + 1 (202) 367-9081 info@nlfrta.org

Cultivating Community and Sustainability at the UDC Van Ness Farmers Market

A Platform for Community Engagement

National Latino Farmers and Ranchers (NLFR) and Van Ness Main Street (VNMS), in collaboration with The College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability and Environmental Sciences (CAUSES) of the University of the District of Columbia (UDC), support UDC’s Van Ness Farmers Market by offering fresh local produce, handmade goods, and a platform for community engagement.

NLFR's involvement enhances the market by supporting events, providing vendor assistance, and fostering educational opportunities, all while promoting sustainable agriculture and local entrepreneurship. During 2022 and 2023, NLFR's contributions to the UDC Van Ness Farmers Market were significantly supported by funds from the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA).

2,000

+

Average exposition to people per day during peak market months

40

+

Vendors identified and recruited by NLFR

9

Years of NLFR’s participation at UDC's Van Ness Farmers Market

How NLFR Is Working with the UDC Van Ness Farmers Market

NLFR plays a crucial role in the success and growth of the UDC Van Ness Farmers Market by actively supporting its operations and community outreach. By leveraging grants from NIFA, specifically the American Rescue Plan Technical Assistance (ARPTIA) award, NLFR collaborates with the UDC Van Ness Farmers Market to manage the market, ensuring vendors have the resources they need to thrive. This includes helping local farmers, many of whom are part of the Latino community, gain access to the market to sell their produce directly to consumers.

In addition to supporting vendors, NLFR sponsors various events and activities at the market, such as cultural celebrations, cooking demonstrations, and educational workshops. These events, supported by NIFA-funded initiatives, not only draw in more visitors but also create a vibrant atmosphere that highlights the community's rich cultural diversity.

NLFR is also instrumental in contributing to the implementation of programs like the Produce Plus initiative, which provides low-income residents with funds to purchase fresh produce, thereby increasing access to healthy food while supporting local farmers. By supporting programs like the PreOrder and Delivery Service and the Entrepreneurial Program, NLFR is helping to modernize the market and create opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs to test and grow their businesses in a supportive environment.

Through its involvement, particularly through the strategic use of NIFA grants, NLFR enhances the market’s ability to serve as a hub for community interaction, local economic development, and sustainable agricultural practices.

National Latino Farmers Ranchers
National Latino Farmers Ranchers
National Latino Farmers Ranchers
National Latino Farmers Ranchers
National Latino Farmers Ranchers
National Latino Farmers Ranchers
National Latino Farmers Ranchers
National Latino Farmers Ranchers
National Latino Farmers Ranchers

NLFR'S Work Underway

Increasing Vendor Participation:

NLFR successfully facilitates the participation of local Latino farmers and artisans, enhancing the diversity and offerings at the market.

Supporting Food Rescue Initiatives:

NLFR collaborates with Food Rescue US to reduce food waste and address food insecurity by donating unsold produce to those in need.

Community Engagement and Cultural Events:​

NLFR sponsors and contributes to organizing numerous cultural celebrations, educational workshops, and entertainment activities, significantly increasing foot traffic and creating a dynamic community atmosphere.

Expanding Market Visibility:

NLFR leverages social media and other advertising platforms to promote the market, attracting new vendors and increasing overall market attendance.

United in our mission to empower and uplift Latino farmers and ranchers, we at NLFR are dedicated to fostering sustainable agriculture and stronger communities. Join us in shaping a resilient and inclusive future in American agriculture.

Contact us

2101 L Street NW, Suite 300, Washington D.C. 20037

+1 202-367-9081

info@nlfrta.org

© The National Latino Farmers and Ranchers 2024