The Sodus Farmers’ Market was “born” as a result of a chat among friends at the United Third Methodist Church in Sodus village, and consultation with two experienced farmer market vendors: Marie Costello and Olen Youngman. With their guidance, a committee of three was formed to “figure it all out.” In June 2009, we started our market with seven vendors on opening day. The response from the residents of Sodus ws explosive, and most of those first vendors were sold out within an hour.
The market grew by leaps and bounds. We added special events, offered businesses a free first-time space at the market, and had entertainment when we could find volunteers. From the first, we abided by the rules created by the NYS Department of Agriculture in order to be certified by the state to accept WIC and FMNP checks. After the market was accredited, farmers had to take special training for these programs. WIC/FMNP are ongoing, and we also now accept SNAP (electronic food stamp) cards through the Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) program. Several vendors also take Credit/Debit cards.
At great expense to the congregation and as a result of much work by our pastor, the parking lot where the market is held was repaved. In 2011, our third year, we had over 20 paid seasonal vendors attending for the whole season. In 2012 we added several new vendors, offering customers a bigger variety of products.
Vendor fees to attend the market go toward advertising, equipment, supplies, and our share of church utilities and water bills. This includes, canopies, weights, signage, trash barrels/bags, washing stations, etc. No salaries are paid, since our market team of eight and our “Friends of the Market” have volunteered to do all that is necessary to keep the market operational and successful.
Our Second Best Shop is open every market day. This project helps support church expenses.
For the first four years of the market, we were fortunate to have parking space across the street donated by Case Marshall, for which we are most grateful. With the sale of that property and the construction of the Family Dollar store, our parking looked different beginning in 2013. We are most grateful to St. John’s Episcopal Church, the Family Dollar, and Terry Pavone – all who have agreed to allow the market customers to park in their parking lots. The Village of Sodus has also approved the reservation of several spaces along Belden Avenue for handicapped parking.
The Market Team is continually working to bring new vendors to the market, and establish a friendly, social, relaxing environment for all customers. To help in this effort the Market Team organized an “Advisory Team” comprised of local residents who have many varied backgrounds and experiences. This group of dedicated people has brought much positive change to the market. They meet several times before, during and after the market season to brainstorm ways the market can improve. The Market Team is most appreciative and thankful for their time and dedication.
With the addition of several new vendors for the 2024 season, and to welcome back our loyal and dedicated vendors from 2023, we are anxious for June 12 to come!
For more information, check out our “Sodus Farmers’ Market” Facebook page.