For several years, the market was operated by the City of Sandy. It was adopted by AntFarm Youth & Family Services in 2015. AntFarm envisioned and initiated the Mount Hood Farmers Market with the community request to establish a weekly spring, summer, and fall market. Through grassroots action, the market called on local farmers and artists to become vendors and called on the community for support through volunteering and donations.
We have seen an increase in vendors, participants, and followers, with significant growth in recent years. This growth has brought great local products into our area including fruits, vegetables, meats, eggs, and other fresh and prepared foods. We have also seen a rise in homemade arts and a wide variety of music. To accommodate the growth in 2024, we expanded our market grounds by closing Scales Avenue on our busiest market days.
With the Mount Hood Farmers Market being a part of AntFarm, the market also supports our Workforce Development program by offering internships to youth. Interns learn valuable communication skills by interacting with community members, vendors, and staff. They learn about sustainable practices through our partnerships. And they gain on the job experience through supporting cafe table sales and youth services activities.