Food security is becoming an increasingly prevalent issue as the COVID-19 Pandemic continues. Even before the pandemic began, the Lawrence Mayor’s Health Task Force, Health Active Living Working Group initiated a food assessment for the City of Lawrence to better understand food security needs. Both MVPC and our partner organization Groundwork Lawrence have rallied around this effort.

Groundwork Lawrence has been the administrator of the Lawrence Farmer’s Market since 2006. In partnership with Farmer Dave’s and Riverdale Farm, Groundwork Lawrence has moved the Groundwork Farmer’s Market to a virtual model to continue to support the community, local farmers, and offer fresh produce to residents during the COVID-19 pandemic. Food security continues to be challenging to many households, therefore to increase access to fresh fruits and vegetables Groundwork Lawrence will continue to accept SNAP/EBT/food stamps as well as debit, credit, cash, WIC coupons, and more as acceptable payment methods.

Customers will order and pay for the groceries ahead of time and can pick them up at The Center, at 155 Haverhill Street in Lawrence. The next pickup will be on Thursday, April 30 from 10 am to 3 pm so orders will have to be placed by Wednesday, April 29 at 12 pm. For more information about the Groundwork Virtual Farmer’s Market, pricing and how to place an order, visit https://groundworklawrence.org/farmersmarket.

In addition to the virtual farmer’s market, Groundwork Lawrence hosts Farmer Dave’s Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) at 50 Island St in Lawrence. For more information about how to participate visit https://groundworklawrence.org/CSA. All pickups for both the CSA and the Groundwork Farmer’s Market are no contact and follow social distancing guidelines.

Lastly, the four food banks around the state have been in communication to consolidate and broadcast resources that ensure food security for households that need assistance. if you or someone you know, lives in Massachusetts and needs food assistance please call Project Bread’s FoodSource Hotline toll-free at 1-800-645-8333 or visit Project Bread’s Hunger Resources for Households for more information.