Dear Phoenix Public Market Community:

A few weeks ago, I sent an update on the state of affairs at the Phoenix Public Market. If you missed that note, you can read it here.

Today I’m writing to ask for your support.

As you may know, the Phoenix Public Market is a project of Community Food Connections, a 501c3 non-profit organization with the mission of supporting local small-scale agriculture and local artists and crafters in the heart of the city. Our goal at every open air market is to provide an environment that helps these small businesses launch, grow and thrive.

Our Market is almost 8 years old now. And in that time, we have assisted more than 200 small farmers and micro businesses that support over 500 local jobs. Our market is an incubator for many small producers who are selling directly to the public and also providing products to local restaurants and grocery stores so that we, the consumer, always have access to healthy food produced right here in our own community. Almost 50 of our vendors now sell in grocery stores and restaurants throughout the Valley and nationally.

Because we are a non-profit, we work hard to run our open air markets on a minimal budget.  We also rely on – and are very thankful for – the dozens of volunteers who give of their time at the Market each week.  Our operating expenses are funded through 10% of sales from our vendors. We want to continue keeping that sales percentage low so we can continue with our mission of supporting the growth of hundreds of small businesses in Arizona. And that is why we are asking for your support today.

Please consider making an end of the year contribution to Community Food Connections, the parent organization of the Phoenix Public Market, so we can continue to set the table with the healthiest local food in a wonderful community setting which supports local businesses.  All contributions are tax deductible and can be made online here.

Your support will help us cover ongoing operational expenses – namely utilities, materials and market management. Your contribution supports the future of local commerce in the heart of Phoenix.

Please don’t hesitate to respond with any questions and comments regarding our Market – we’re always open to feedback from the community. Thank you for your continued support of Community Food Connections and YOUR Phoenix Public Market.

Sincerely,
Dan Klocke
Volunteer Board Member