University of Washington, Seattle
PAE-T2-12: Farmers' Market

UW Medical Center's farmers' market: On June 29, 2011 the first farmer's market was started at the UWMC's Plaza Cafe Department of Nutrition Services. It has continued each month since then and has grown and developed each month. The market started out as a single source program with help from our local and sustainable produce distributor "Charlie's Produce." It has featured other local farms like UW Farms, Essential Bakery, Full Circle Farms, Wilcox Farms, Artisan Meats ( a local boutique organic sausage maker), and others. The market is part of a comprehensive Wellness Program that includes pledges to Health Care Without Harm for a reduction of sugar sweet beverages and the Balanced Menu Challenge. Patients no longer receive pesticide filled fruits or vegetables (frozen has been eliminated for patients), our patients receive a choice of an organic fresh fruit or vegetable daily. In retail services patrons are offered daily vegetarian and legume selections, organic fruits, and popular Meatless Monday and Farm Fresh Friday programs. Currently the farmer's market has increased its service hours by providing two buffet tables full of farmer's market vegetables, fruits, and baked good for the evening shift at the medical center.