Every week during the summer and fall, Sullivan County residents gather at Sullivan Fresh farmers markets to shop for fresh, affordable produce, participate in cooking demonstrations, and connect with their community. For many, these markets represent more than a chance to shop, they are a lifeline for healthy food access and an opportunity to support local farmers.
Operated by Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) Sullivan County, the initiative has been uniting residents and farmers since its launch in 2017.
"Sullivan Fresh farmers markets aren't just about produce-they're spaces for connection," said Alan Carroll, food systems program manager at CCE Sullivan County. "You can meet your local farmer, learn where your food comes from, sit with your neighbors, and find that common ground we all share. It's really special to see how these markets have grown and the sense of belonging they create."
The markets run from late June to mid-October, with multiple locations across the county, including the bustling Monticello farmers market. Sullivan Fresh's mobile markets meet residents where they are using a special refrigerated van to ensure that residents with limited transportation can still access fresh, affordable food in their own towns.
One of Sullivan Fresh's key goals is breaking down barriers to healthy eating. The farmers markets accept major nutrition incentive programs, including SNAP, EBT, Double-Up Food Bucks, and Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMP) coupons. Shoppers earn "Sullivan Fresh Bucks," $10 vouchers for participating in on-site cooking demonstrations.
The team's outreach efforts have produced remarkable results. In 2017, only 35% of FMP coupons distributed in the county were redeemed. Today, that number has risen to over 80%. Sullivan Fresh partners with the Sullivan County Office of the Aging to distribute FMP coupons directly at the markets, ensuring seniors can take advantage of local produce and stretch their food dollars.
Cooking demonstrations are a cornerstone of the markets. Attendees learn how to prepare nutritious meals using seasonal ingredients. These sessions not only educate diners but also highlight the benefits of supporting local farmers.
"It's incredible to see people learn and try new things," Carroll said. "It's not just about buying food-it's about knowing how to use it to improve health and wellness."
Local farms are integral to Sullivan Fresh's success. Over a dozen growers participate annually as market vendors or produce suppliers. Farmers benefit financially from this added revenue stream, while markets provide a platform for them to connect directly with the community.
"By supporting farmers, we're not only boosting the local economy but also strengthening the relationships between residents and agriculture," said Carroll.
This relationship is especially important in Sullivan County, where many residents struggle with food access due to high costs and limited transportation. Sullivan Fresh ensures fresh food is affordable for consumers while sustaining the livelihoods of local farmers.
There is also a renewed sense of connection. In Monticello, people from diverse cultural, religious, and socioeconomic backgrounds gather weekly to shop, share meals, and attend educational events.
"When people eat and learn together, they realize they have far more in common than they have differences," Carroll said. "The market fosters a sense of unity that's rare and beautiful. It's amazing to see how our markets have grown each year. The loyalty, the trust, and the partnerships we've built prove that farmers markets aren't just a source of food-they're a source of hope and strength for communities."
For locations and schedules of Sullivan Fresh farmers markets, visit the Sullivan Fresh Website. Photos and videos contributed by CCE Sullivan County.
