Popular pop-up food market hitting the streets of Kingston

The Fresh Food Market is open at 9 regular locations plus several one-time sites throughout Kingston and Amherstview.

A market offering fresh food at affordable prices could be 'popping up' in your neighbourhood.

Lionhearts is holding their Fresh Food Market Pop-Ups at a number of locations throughout Kingston and Amherstview this summer.

Market Manager Leslie Hanson says the location of these markets are selected based on where it is needed the most.

Since the Fresh Food Market Pop-Up was first established in Kingston in 2023, it has been growing by leaps and bounds.

Hanson says they have regular weekly locations and several more that take place at events.

The markets will carry the usual items like potatoes, onions, carrots, apples, bananas, bell peppers, cucumbers, and celery. 

Lionhearts buy the produce from Tony Deodato and Sons, while prepared goods are made by Lionhearts chefs in the kitchen of local non-profit Ongwanada.

Hanson says they have been getting positive feedback from customers and there are plans to add more locations in the future.

Customers at these markets range from those with low income to those with mobility issues to those who want a great selection of goods to purchase.

Hanson tells us about one customer who really appreciates having a fresh food market to go to for groceries.

The market receives funding and support from the Ontario Trillium Foundation, the Community Foundation for Kingston and Area, the City of Kingston, Loyalist Township, the Alma Mater Society of Queen’s University, and all other venue partners.

More information including locations of the Fresh Food Market Pop-Up can be found by going to their website. 

Story by Ken Hashizume