The countdown is on for the opening of the Bushel Basket Farmers Market at the Chelsea Community Hospital, which will open Wednesday, May 8 at 2:30 p.m.
This season the Wednesday market will be located in the parking lot of the U-M Chelsea Family Medicine, 14700 East Old US-12 on the Chelsea Community Hospital campus and takes place each Wednesday from 2:30-6 p.m. through October.
For seven years, the Bushel Basket Market has brought local, high-quality food and artisan products to the Chelsea community, and this season there will be several new vendors, as well as nutrition education events.
“We are pleased to have 15 full-season vendors this year,” says Ashley Miller Helmholdt, market manager.
Returning are TJ Farm, Janet’s LLC, Bunch O’ Pines, Oakhill Farm, Greystone Creamery, Kapp Farms, Lutchka Angus and Farm Market, Marks Farm and Greenhouse, Goodtimes Kettlecorn, Pregitzer Farm Market, Golden Fleece Farms, Stone Hearth Breads, and Mama Mofoods.
New this year are Tasty Bakery (gluten-free baked goods) and Mildred Parker Crafts and Produce.
“Our customers know that our market provides them with the ingredients to make well-rounded, healthy, fresh meals all week, while supporting local Michigan and Chelsea-area farmers,” Miller Helmholdt says.
The market offers seasonal vegetables and fruits, meat and poultry, eggs, honey, maple syrup, a wide variety of breads, bakery items, herbs, and kettle corn, as well as prepared artisan foods such as hummus, cheese, and rubs. Hand-crafted artisan products include soaps and lotions, candles, baskets, and more.
This year, the market will also be offering the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which allows State of Michigan Bridge Cards to be used at the market. Bridge Card holders may bring their card to the information table in exchange for Bridge Card Tokens, which are used to purchase eligible food items – fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy, and grains.
The market also plans to hold at least three nutrition education events:
- “Summer Salsas and Sauces” demonstration with Washtenaw County Extension on June 5
- “Budget Market Meals” demonstration by Chelsea Community Kitchen on July 24
- “Cooking with Youth” demonstration with the Chelsea Community Hospital staff on Aug. 14.
Patrons may also receive weekly emails about the coming week’s vendors, products, and events by sending an email to [email protected].
The market is also looking for volunteers to help run the market. If you’re interested, please email [email protected].
