Genuine MS Farmers Market supports local farmers and businesses

BRANDON, Miss. (WLBT) – A ribbon cutting ceremony was held for the new Genuine MS Farmers Market at the Rankin County Co-Op in Brandon.

The first day of the market was filled with shoppers searching for fresh fruits and vegetables, local honey, fresh flowers and other Mississippi grown and made products.

It’s a way to not only find fresh foods, but also support local farmers and businesses.

Mississippi Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson said strengthening the local food supply is important for the state. He said supporting farmers and local food supply is critical.

“We’re seeing droughts across this nation that are unprecedented, farmers who are going out of business,” Gipson said.

Gipson said it’s clear that Mississippians are wanting local foods, and that’s what can be found at this market.

Leslie Anderson from Great Southern Farms, a family-owned blueberry farm in Richton, said community support is key for local businesses.

“It’s so important to help keep these local businesses running, we sell all over the United States, but it’s important for us to sell local too,” Anderson said.

Jim Pennington from Pennington Farms said not only does shopping local support local businesses, but the community as well.

“If you support local beekeepers, you can support all our local beekeepers – not just me – and you’re supporting the farmers here and it helps the economy here in the local area,” Pennington said.

The market will be open on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon.

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