Wilfrid Laurier University
Tier2-3: Farmers' Market

The WLU farm market began in the winter of 2008 with three market days held as a test for feasibility. In the following two years, there was some variation in goods sold and organization of the market. The market operates out of the Concourse, an open space in the main building at Laurier that is traversed regularly by primarily Arts and Business students. A second location has been contemplated in the Science building to ensure that a greater audience is reached. In 2008-2009, the space alternated between hosting a regular market with produce, and a Market Café, where students could buy and toast bagels and drink freshly-brewed coffee. However, in 2009-2010, the market switched to being every other week (Tuesdays from 10-5) to suit demand. The Market is advertised to first year students during orientation week, but is also popular with senior students, professors, and staff.

Goods Sold:
Grainharvest bread, bagels and pretzels (local, some organic)
Produce from Pfenning's Organic, occasionally from Herrle's (organic and/or local)
Cocoa Camino Hot Chocolate and Chocolate Bars
Fair Trade Tea and Coffee
Local Honey and Spreads
Local Maple Syrup
Prepared goods such as granola bars and other snacks

Besides selling produce, the WLU Farm Market has materials on why it's important to eat local and organic so that students are informed as to why it's important to have a Farm Market on campus. The WLU Farm Market also hosted a fundraiser for the Laurier Food Bank, as well as taking donations to support the market. The Market also works with Seven Shores Urban Market and Café to bring students off campus and to connect with the local food system. Each year there are difficulties as Laurier has a small campus and storage space is in high demand, as well as space to run the market. This makes it difficult to deal with leftovers, though this challenge is reduced each year. The market began with funding and support from both the Laurier Students' Public Interest Research Group and the WLU Students' Union, though is now recognized as only a WLUSU Club. Overall the market is well-received on campus, as businesses such as the C-Spot, Union Market and Wilf's pub are also working on bringing in fair trade, local, and organic goods.