The COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting economic recession have negatively affected many people’s mental health and created new barriers for people already suffering from mental illness and substance use disorders. During the pandemic, about 4 in 10 adults in the U.S. have reported symptoms of anxiety or depressive disorder, a share that has been largely consistent, up from one in ten adults who reported these symptoms from January to June 2019. Extension recognized the potential to support residents through educational programming and efforts at the Farmers’ Market.

In addition to providing access to fresh and local products when the grocery stores were raided, the Pendleton County Farmers’ Market offered a respite for physical and mental well-being. The Farmers’ Market offers the local community much more than just Corn and Tomatoes. Market provides a social event filled with excitement and connection on the personal level. Multiple 2020 Customers state “I’m so thankful for the Farmers’ Market. It’s given me connection.” Social connection can lower anxiety and depression, help us regulate our emotions, lead to higher self-esteem and empathy, and actually improve our immune systems. By neglecting our need to connect, we put our health at risk.

Recognizing the impact that market has on clients and vendors alike, the PCFM planned a Community Health and Emergency Services Day. The day featured collaborations with local EMS, Fire, Police, AirCare, Emergency Management, Health Department, and more who all reached out to be a part of the event. The day featured family friendly activities with Touch-a-Truck, community services outreach, and Covid-19 Vaccinations. 

Each week the market averages 150 customers on typical market days, for the Community Health Event there were more than 500 in attendance! Beyond high attendance, the event was a success for many reasons including; leadership, community engagement, community pride, connection with community, recognition of frontline workers, access to fresh fruits and vegetables, garnering new customers, but a large highlight of the event was 78 individuals received their Covid-19 Vaccination.

The PCFM, which is a program of the Pendleton County Extension Office, is so much more than Corn and Tomatoes. Rooted in economic development, community development, and now community health, the market offers residents much more than face value produce and arts.