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Hot Springs Farmers Market reports financial stability, SNAP growth and plans for 501(c)(3) status
Summary
The Farmers Market reported roughly $30,268 in annual revenue, growth in SNAP and Double Up Food Bucks sales, a new paid market manager, vendor-board representation and plans to seek 501(c)(3) status to expand a pavilion and pursue grants.
Grace Anne Chastain, president of the Hot Springs Farmers Market Board, presented the market’s annual report at the March 10 board meeting, saying the market generated about $30,268 this year and has taken steps to professionalize operations and increase accessibility.
Chastain told the board the market added three vendor seats on its board — representing farmers, value-added food vendors and artisans — and hired a paid market manager. The market implemented MarketSpread, a vendor-and-payment-management platform, and began collecting unsold perishables each week for donation to local nonprofits including Jackson House and Potters Clay.
Chastain said the market also expanded SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and Double Up Food Bucks acceptance; staff figures show nearly double the SNAP/Double Up redemptions this year compared with the prior year after the market began accepting SNAP year-round and maintained a staffed presence at the table to process transactions.
The market partnered with the Arkansas Grown Conference and Expo, bringing about 75 local vendors to the convention center market and creating wholesale opportunities for vendors, Chastain said. She said the board hopes to secure 501(c)(3) status to pursue grants and to fund a future pavilion expansion.
Board members thanked Chastain for the report and for efforts to increase transparency and vendor participation. No votes were required for the report.
Why it matters: Expanded SNAP and Double Up acceptance made market purchases more accessible for low-income residents in Garland County, while the move to a paid manager and a formal nonprofit structure would enable grant applications and longer-term sustainability.
What’s next: The market board will pursue 501(c)(3) status, continue donation and committee efforts, and work with the city for ongoing support.
