City of Columbia launching mobile food market

Photo: City of Columbia Twitter/X page

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– The City of Columbia is launching a new mobile food market which will provide SC grown produce to residents in Columbia to have more access to health and nutritious food options.

Mayor Daniel Rickenmann along with city council members will announce the launch of the Toms Creek Family Farm Mobile Food Market on Thursday, Feb. 22 at Hyatt Park.

City officials say the mobile market will serve areas in Columbia with a trailer that has been up-fitted to accommodate fresh produce, proteins, dairy, and fresh baked goods.

The mobile market will offer at least 85 percent of South Carolina grown produce from Toms Creek Family Farms and other local farmers, say officials.

“The mobile market is an exciting step to expand access to healthy and nutritious foods across Columbia. City Council and I believe it is time to try new things to ensure we finally increase food security across our neighborhoods,” says Mayor Daniel Rickenmann.

The market was created in response to the findings of a report from the Food Equity Subcommittee for the Columbia Food Policy Committee which pointed out multiple food access challenges for residents of Columbia.

The market will accept cash, all major credit cards, SNAP benefits, and DSS Senior Voucher Program (when offered).

“This market will offer an opportunity to collaborate with local farmers, markets, and organizations to create sustainable and affordable food solutions. This market will also serve as a platform for nutritional education and continue our efforts to promote healthier eating habits,” District II Councilman Edward McDowell, Jr. stated.

The city is looking at early March for the mobile food market to begin.

The locations identified for the mobile market are:

• Hyatt Park, 950 Jackson Avenue (29203)
• Greenview Park, 6700 David Street (29203)
• Edgewood Library, 2101 Oak Street (29204)