Bent Paddle, Local Businesses Host Free Farmer’s Market

Around 1,000 people came through the market on Tuesday and nearly 3400 pounds of food was given out. 

DULUTH, Minn. – Tuesday, Bent Paddle Brewing and Clyde Iron Works hosted a “Free Farmer’s Market” for the public in need.

In partnership with Sysco Foods, Pier B Resort Hotel and the 2020 Census, the farmer’s market provided 120 large cases of fresh produce.

The farmer’s market was organized for anyone but specifically for people and families in need in the Lincoln Park area. It also gave local restaurants the chance to donate food without it going to waste.

“Everybody’s restaurants basically shut down when this COVID-19 thing happened so we were sitting on a lot of food in our warehouse down in Blaine. We were able to donate 350 cases of produce for the event today,” marketing associate of Sysco Foods Fran Bussey said.

The farmers market also practiced social distancing, having volunteers guide people through the lines in the parking lot by Bent Paddle, keeping them six feet apart. They also provided gloves for people to grab produce with.

“I think there was a comfort with people, actually relieved that there is an organization to this. It’s been well received,” Bussey added.

Around 1,000 people came through the market on Tuesday and nearly 3400 pounds of food was given out.