Key Facts
- Organizer
- Verde Vida nonprofit
- Dates
- August 6 and August 13
- Times
- 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Locations
- PS/IS 173 (306 Fort Washington Ave.) and PS 189M (2580 Amsterdam Ave.)
- Eligibility
- Open to all; no ID or EBT required
- Produce distributed this season
- Over 100,000 lbs
Background
Volunteers are organizing two open-air produce markets in the Washington Heights and Fort George neighborhoods of Manhattan this month, where all food is free and no identification or EBT verification is required.
The markets are hosted by Verde Vida, a nonprofit serving Northern Manhattan and the Bronx. The first market is scheduled for August 6 and the second for August 13, both outside public schools.
Current Situation
The first market will take place on Thursday, August 6, from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at PS/IS 173, located at 306 Fort Washington Avenue. The second will be held on Thursday, August 13, from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at PS 189M, at 2580 Amsterdam Avenue.
The markets are open to anyone, regardless of immigration status or EBT verification, according to organizers. Fresh produce includes batata, plantains, yuca, cilantro, and more, sourced from local partners such as the Hunts Point Produce Market, Sharing Excess, and Whole Foods.
| Date | Time | Location | Address |
|---|---|---|---|
| August 6 | 2:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. | PS/IS 173 | 306 Fort Washington Ave. |
| August 13 | 2:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. | PS 189M | 2580 Amsterdam Ave. |
Impacts
The initiative aims to address high supermarket prices that make fresh produce unaffordable for some residents. Rosanna Diaz, president of the PS/IS 173 PTA, said, "Not everyone has the budget to go to a supermarket and buy fresh fruits and vegetables because prices are so high. Providing fresh produce brings healthy food directly into people's homes — and there is more than enough to go around."
Verde Vida also rescues surplus produce directly and has distributed more than 100,000 pounds of produce through these markets this season. The free markets could benefit local families, including those without documentation or EBT cards, by providing access to nutritious food.
Future Outlook
Scenario analysis: The possibilities below are not certain predictions.
If the markets continue to draw participants and partner support, Verde Vida may expand the initiative to additional locations or extend the schedule beyond August. However, no such plans have been announced.
Should demand exceed supply, organizers might need to adjust distribution methods or seek additional partners. Conversely, if participation is low, the markets could be scaled back. The long-term impact will depend on community response and ongoing partnerships.
Source: patch.com
