Food -> Eats MON, JUL 25 9:50AM by Anna Purdy

From fire to farm

The house fire on Vermilion Street last year left a huge, empty lot. (Thankfully, no human or pet lost their lives.) It is now the spot for a new farmer’s market for Lafayette, called the Freetown Mid-Week Farmer’s Market. Located across the street from Taco Sisters, last Wednesday was its launch.

The market will take place every Wednesday from 3 to 7 p.m. Parking is easily found on the street.

Why Freetown Mid-Week Farmer’s Market coordinator David Klier began this market is simple: he had a need. “I really needed it for myself. I needed an outlet for a mid-week direct sales to people.”

Living on a small farm north of Lafayette, Klier’s current crop includes okra, cucumbers, zucchini, kale and both collard and mustard greens. “It wasn’t just for me as I have a lot of friends who are young growers and need a place to sell their products. I decided to try to get as many people involved as possible.”

Currently the market has 10 vendors that sell everything from soap to live chickens to fresh, hot tamales with plans to extend to local bread bakers and more.

A new twist will be that local green business owners will be at the Freetown Mid-Week Farmer’s Market as well, promoting their wares and skills to people interested.

Klier, a native of Baton Rouge, was introduced to Lafayette through a friend and became enchanted. “I feel so supported in Lafayette. This is the most supportive community I could ask for.” He credits the large amount of young, active entrepreneurs as one of the reasons he chose to move here and feels his market will thrive. If you are interested in becoming active with the market contact Klier at 225-324-6267 or visit the Facebook page here.

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Comments (3)

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written by James Melancon , July 26, 2011 - 12:29 pm

Bon Chance!

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written by Belle LeBlanc , July 27, 2011 - 04:38 am

So excited!

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written by Gene Broussard , July 28, 2011 - 12:13 am

GREAT! I wish him much success. Lafayette needs this.

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