Leavenworth and Cashmere Farmers Markets Merge into “Cascade Community Markets”

Last summer, Leavenworth Community Farmers Market partnered with a team of Cashmere residents to establish and manage the Cashmere Community Farmers Market. Now, these two unique markets have come together to form Cascade Community Markets, a unified organization that will strengthen both markets’ management and provide a consistent market experience for customers and vendors.

 The merger takes place after a successful first season for Cashmere. The Cashmere market supported local vendors, along with new customers, including those who use SNAP, EBT, Senior and WIC FNMP checks. The Leavenworth market is well-established and brings a seasoned staff and board of directors to the team, while the Cashmere market brings new vendors, an expanded service area, and an increased capacity for staffing. Operating multiple markets under one umbrella allows for resource-sharing and to serve a broader and more diverse population. “The change in our business name and relationship with the Cashmere market is primarily a formality, since our staff were already contracted to run the Cashmere market last year. That being said, I am thrilled that the board is making this transition that will improve our ability to equitably represent both the Leavenworth and Cashmere areas. These two communities have a great deal to offer one another and we are proud to support a valley-wide alliance,” said Cali Osborne, CCM Executive Director.

 The Cashmere Community Farmers Market opens on Mothers Day, May 8, in its new location at the Cashmere Museum’s Chief Harmelt Park and Pavillion. Leavenworth Community Farmers Market opens the first Thursday of June and takes place at the Cascade School District Office play field in Leavenworth, near Osborn Elementary. Farmers, artisans, prepared food vendors and organizations from around the region will gather in the valley twice a week all season long to enrich and nourish our communities.

 Cascade Community Markets will promote health, equity, and sustainability by creating vibrant markets in our valley that foster community connection and support local farmers and artisans. The staff of two and board of directors are made up of Leavenworth, Cashmere and Plain residents.. For more information, contact cali@cascademarkets.org.