Market History

History
The Downtown Ypsilanti Farmers’ Market (DYFM) emerged in June 2006 in response to the Community Needs Assessment conducted by the Ypsilanti Health Coalition, which revealed residents of downtown Ypsilanti had little or no access to fresh foods. Growing Hope, Washtenaw County Public Health, the Ypsilanti Food Co-op, and MSU-Extension jointly constructed the market with emphasize on increasing availability of and access to fresh and healthy food for Ypsilanti area residents.

Mission
The Downtown Ypsilanti Farmers’ Market mission is to provide underserved Ypsilanti area residents increased access to nutritious, affordable, and locally produced food while fostering social integration, community vitality, and opportunities for economic growth for area producers and downtown Ypsilanti businesses.

Management
A network of partners including Washtenaw County Public Health, the Ypsilanti Food Co-op, MSU-Extension, and Growing Hope, cooperatively lead the Downtown Ypsilanti Farmers’ Market. The Executive Committee leadership team, comprised of the aforementioned partners, makes decisions about market priorities, functions, marketing, and policies with input from a Community Advisory Board (CAB). The CAB includes a broad section of community leaders, nonprofit organizations, farmers, community residents, and other market vendors. Growing Hope provides direct market management by employing the Market Manager.

More questions?  Please visit Market FAQ’s.