The return of Claflin’s Farmers Market

The Claflin University Farmers Market is open on Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. outside the Jonas T. Kennedy Health and Wellness Center on Magnolia Street. (Panther photo by Tyler Starks)

The year is 2019. Vice President of Fiscal Affairs Tijuana Hudson began an initiative to promote healthy lifestyles and wellness to the students of Claflin University and the local community.

Claflin’s Farmers Market was born.

Hudson contacted local South Carolinian and farming expert Frances Koon to help run and set up the market. Koon was surprised by the call, but coming from a rich history of farming, she was the chosen person to help establish the new farmers market.

The market located at the Jonas T. Kennedy facility, which was newly expanded in 2019. Farmers from all over came together to sell their produce such as watermelons, green beans and tomatoes.

Claflin’s Farmers Market lasted from May to November in 2019, however, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it didn’t return the following year. Its fate remained unknown until this year when the market made its triumphant return with Koon coming back to run it.

"This will be a tremendous help for our local farmers," Hudson said. "Claflin is delighted to provide this resource for them."

"We are excited about providing this opportunity to the community," Hudson.

Restarting in June, the market has become a positive and enriching experience for students and community members alike, where they can get fresh fruits and vegetables and support local farmers.

 “I think one major benefit for me is showing the community and students that they can start their own garden and grow their produce.”, said Brianna Stafford, a senior environmental science major.

She also highlights that the market supports local farmers of the community and the importance of doing so.

“I believe the benefits are being able to get access to fresh, awesome produce and being able to make connections with the local farmers of the community. It’s a very great experience,” said Anasha Leary, a senior bioinformatics major.

The Claflin University Farmers Market is open on Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. outside the Jonas T. Kennedy Health and Wellness Center on Magnolia Street.