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[Americus, GA, March 7, 2024] – Lenny’s Farmers Market is excited to announce that it has been selected as a recipient of the prestigious Fresh from the Farm grant, a program initiated by Southwest Georgia Farm Credit. This grant, totaling $500, will not only enhance the market’s offerings but also contribute to promoting the vital role local farmers play in fostering healthier lifestyles.

As part of the grant, Lenny’s Farmers Market received 50 complimentary reusable tote bags and will be distributing them to customers on the opening day of the upcoming season. These reusable tote bags not only serve as a token of appreciation to our valued patrons but also underscore our commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. Patrons can use their tote bag with every visit to the market during the season.

“As coordinator of the market, witnessing the revitalization of Lenny’s Farmers Market is truly gratifying. In recent years, we experienced attendance and participation slowing down, but thanks to our intentional efforts in the growth of the market, we’re seeing renewed interest and enthusiasm from both vendors and the community,” says Jennifer English, Main Street Program Coordinator.

For individuals interested in becoming vendors at Lenny’s Farmers Market this season, please reach out to the Americus Main Street office at (229) 924-4411, Ext. 235 or via email at jenglish@americusga.gov.

Southwest Georgia Farm Credit initiated the Fresh from the Farm Mini-Grant program a decade ago with the primary objective of recognizing and supporting regional producers. During the past 10 years, the association has contributed a total of $50,000 in grants to local produce markets and roadside stands. This program exemplifies Southwest Georgia Farm Credit’s dedication to partnering with, promoting, and supporting local farmers who are integral to our community’s well-being.

Lenny’s Farmers Market plans to utilize the grant to purchase additional totes for market customers and for advertising the market to a wider audience. This investment aligns with our commitment to continuously improve and expand our offerings while supporting local agriculture.

Join us in celebrating this exciting milestone for Lenny’s Farmers Market, as we express our gratitude to Southwest Georgia Farm Credit for their ongoing commitment to fostering a healthier and more sustainable community through the Fresh from the Farm grant program.

For more information about Lenny’s Farmers Market, please visit www.downtownamericus.com or follow them on Facebook.

About Lenny’s Farmers Market:

Lenny’s Farmers Market is named for Leonard “Lenny” J. Waitsman, who was a downtown business owner and Americus City Council member who developed his vision for an Americus Farmers’ Market into a reality. The idea came to Waitsman while he served as a board member of the Downtown Development Authority in the early 1980s. The first market was formed on Jackson Street in the shade of the Windsor Hotel. The market took root and continued to flourish with shoppers, merchants, cooks and children, eagerly awaiting the arrival of the season’s fresh produce. The market was such a success it had to be moved to its current location on Hampton Street to allow for further expansion. Lenny’s Farmers Market is a lasting memorial to Waitsman and his passion for planting, growing, and nurturing the seeds of success in Americus.

About Southwest Georgia Farm Credit:

Southwest Georgia Farm Credit is part of the Farm Credit System; a nationwide network of customer-owned cooperatives. Farm Credit has been serving rural America for more than 100 years. In Southwest Georgia, it works side-by-side with farmers, farm businesses, landowners and homeowners. And because it’s a cooperative, the communities’ success is its success. For more information, visit www.swgafarmcredit.com.