Neighbourhood Markets in Waterloo Region

The Neighbourhood Markets for 2011 are now closed. We would like to thank the Lyle S. Hallman Foundation, the City of Cambridge and City of Kitchener for their financial and in-kind support.

The 2011 partners are: The Highland Stirling Community Group, St. Clements Parish, Preston BIA, City of Kitchener, City of Cambridge, Langs, Nutrition for Learning, Mosaic Counselling and a large number of growers and community volunteers.

For details regarding the 2012 market season please check this webpage in April 2012.

In the News

The Record, September 16, 2011	Cambridge Times, September 4, 2009
Cambridge Times, July 20, 2011	Cambridge Times, July 23, 2009
The Record, September 4, 2010	Cambridge Now, July, 2009
Cambridge Now, July 29, 2010

View Preston Market

Video

Website

City of Cambridge Website

Benefits of Neighbourhood Markets

Primary benefits of neighbourhood markets are:

health
economic and
community benefits

Health benefits

Improved access to fresh locally grown vegetables and fruit
Increased physical activity levels by promoting walking
Increased social connectivity by providing a place for people to gather

Economic benefits

Neigbourhood markets support local farmers and the rural economy by promoting the purchase of locally grown products. For local farmers, neighbourhood markets provide a venue to sell their products at a time when they face competition from imported products.

Community benefits

Neighbourhood markets provide an opportunity for:

Collaboration of community agencies and businesses to work together to serve the public
Skill development for volunteers (e.g. customer relations, retail skills, etc.)

Tips for Attending a Neighbourhood Market

Walk, bike or use Grand River Transit to get to the market. Parking is limited. If walking, consider bringing a wheeled cart or wagon to take your purchases home.
Bring your own bags or baskets.
Bring cash in smaller amounts (e.g. loonies, toonies, $5 or $10 bills)
Buy something you have not tried before. A market is a great place to try a new vegetable or fruit.
Bring your children and let them help pick. Children who choose some of the produce and talk with the vendors may be willing to try new vegetables and fruit.
Buy what your family is able to eat. Instead of overstocking, make the neighbourhood market part of your regular shopping.
Shop early for the best selection. Variety and quantity of items diminishes over time.
Come with a flexible shopping list. Be open to substituting different vegetables and fruits on your list.
Plan to go straight home after your day at the Market or bring a cooler with an ice pack.
Dress comfortably. Comfortable shoes are important. Remember to wear your sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
Take your time. See what is available before deciding what to buy
Tell a friend.