Columbia, South Carolina is taking significant steps to combat food insecurity with the launch of the Toms Creek Family Farm Mobile Food Market. Funded through the American Rescue Plan Act, this initiative aims to bring fresh, healthy food directly to communities in need. A press conference held on Thursday, February 22nd at Hyatt Park marked the official announcement, with Mayor Rickenmann and City Council Members present to highlight the importance of this project for the city.
Toms Creek Family Farms Mobile Market
Recognizing the pressing need to improve food access, especially in underserved areas, the City of Columbia has developed this mobile market as a direct response to findings from the Columbia Food Policy Committee’s 2019 report. Councilwoman Tina Herbert emphasized the market’s role in enhancing convenience and accessibility to quality food, noting its adaptability for community events and gatherings. This initiative directly tackles the challenges identified in the report, which highlighted issues such as the poor quality of food options in some local grocery stores, the lack of accessible healthy food retailers, the high cost of nutritious foods, and transportation barriers preventing residents from reaching suitable markets.
The mobile food market is strategically designed to serve communities within Columbia, with an initial focus on the 29203 and 29204 zip codes. The custom-fitted trailer is equipped to carry a variety of essential food items, including fresh produce, proteins, dairy products, and baked goods. This ensures that residents have access to a diverse range of healthy options right in their neighborhoods.
Mayor Daniel Rickenmann expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “The mobile market is an exciting step to expand access to healthy and nutritious foods across Columbia.” He further emphasized the city’s commitment to innovative solutions for food security, adding, “City Council and I believe it is time to try new things to ensure we finally increase food security across our neighborhoods. The Toms Creek Family Farms mobile market is a creative solution, and I look forward to witnessing its positive impact.”
A key feature of the Food Market Columbia initiative is its dedication to sourcing locally. At least 85 percent of the produce will come from South Carolina growers, primarily Toms Creek Family Farms, and supplemented by other local farmers whenever possible. Councilman Edward McDowell, Jr. highlighted the collaborative aspect of the market, stating, “This market will offer an opportunity to collaborate with local farmers, markets, and organizations to create sustainable and affordable food solutions. This market will also serve as a platform for nutritional education and continue our efforts to promote healthier eating habits.” This focus on local sourcing not only supports the community but also ensures the freshness and quality of the food offered.
To ensure accessibility for all residents, the mobile market will accept multiple forms of payment, including cash, credit cards, SNAP benefits, and the DSS Senior Voucher Program. Toms Creek Family Farms’ participation in the “Healthy Bucks” program further enhances affordability for SNAP recipients, allowing them to maximize their benefits when purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables at the mobile market. The market’s schedule and locations will be regularly updated and shared with the public through social media and community announcements.
Shana Catoe, Chair of the Columbia Food Policy Committee, shared the community’s eagerness for this project, stating, “The anticipation for the launch of this mobile market project has been great. It is so rewarding to know that this initiative is now ready to roll out to the community for our neighbors to utilize”.
The initial locations for the mobile market have been confirmed as Hyatt Park (950 Jackson Avenue), Greenview Park (6700 David Street), and Edgewood Library (2101 Oak Street), all within the 29203 and 29204 zip codes. The City plans to expand to additional locations in the near future, with the mobile market anticipated to begin operating in early March 2024.
About Toms Creek Family Farms, LLC
Toms Creek Family Farms, LLC, the primary operator of this mobile market, is a Hopkins, SC-based small business with three years of experience at farmers markets like Soda City and Sumter Farmers Market. They have also served local assisted living facilities, demonstrating their commitment to the community and providing fresh, local produce. This partnership ensures that the food market columbia project is in capable hands, bringing fresh and healthy food options to the residents of Columbia.
