Community Initiatives
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Nutrition Coupon Program
We are proud members of the BC Farmers Market Nutrition Coupon Program, a healthy eating initiative that supports EFM and strengthens food security across BC. Low-income families, pregnant people, and seniors enrolled in the program are eligible to receive a minimum of $27/week in coupons that can be used to purchase produce, meat, eggs, nuts, dairy and honey.
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Community Fridge Food Donations
Each and every week a Community Fridge volunteer collects food donations from our vendors at the end of the market. The Community Fridge is located at 2725 Rock Bay Avenue and operates on a “take what you need, leave what you can” basis. Help us support the incredible work they do by bringing perishable and non-perishable food donations to the market on Thursdays!
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Live Music
We have been working hard to return to a full music roster since the pandemic. We are now thrilled to be hosting two live performances every market day throughout the Spring and Summer. If you are a musician interested in playing, please fill out an application . If you are a potential sponsor looking to support this community event, please reach out!
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Emerging Vendor Grant
As part of our commitment to increase accessibility while building just & equitable access to the market, EFM is thrilled to offer an Emerging Vendor Grant, sponsored by PC Urban. This program funding aims to reduce the financial barriers involved with starting a new market business. Priority will be given to equity deserving individuals, IBPOC, newcomers to Canada (immigrants and/or refugees). If you or someone who know might be interested, you can find out more about becoming a vendor here .
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Marketbucks Programs
Since 2022, EFM has been working together with community organizations, grant funders, charities and sponsors to raise funds to distribute Marketbucks, our in-house market currency, to low-income families, senior and individuals who are facing food insecurity. To date we have distributed over $28,000 in Marketbucks. If you would like to contribute towards these efforts, please contact us.
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Who Do We Work With?
Community Fridge
Iye Creative
Esquimalt Neighborhood House
Songhees Nation
Victoria Community Food Hub Society
James Bay New Horizons