Syracuse, N.Y. (NCC News) — Entrepreneurs and student vendors filled Walnut Park last weekend for the Student Government Association’s first-ever farmers market.
Tents lined the sidewalks as vendors showcased handmade goods, ranging from crocheted crafts to fresh produce, in an effort to highlight small businesses and student-run brands.
For vendors like Michelle and Guy Alton, the market meant more than just sales — it was a way to strengthen community ties and give back.
“One thing I noticed is that you’re supporting your local economy, and you’re buying from your local people,” Guy Alton said. “For small businesses, it’s really tough sometimes, so it really does beneficial things and it blesses them.”
Along with supporting small businesses, some vendors used the opportunity to raise money for causes close to their hearts. The Altons donated a portion of their profits to the American Cancer Society, a cause they say provided vital support to their family during difficult times.
“Just the whole concept of having cancer and everything that goes along with it… there’s so much more than just the diagnosis,” Michelle Alton said. “To have the American Cancer Society available, it meant a lot. They provide support for everything involved in it.”
The event, organized by the Student Government Association’s sustainability committee, aimed to encourage community-building, sustainability, and local shopping among Syracuse University students.
Many vendors said they hope the Student Government Association continues the farmers market tradition in future semesters.
AUDIO TRANSCRIPT: First-ever Student Government Association Farmers Market brings vendors, charity together in Walnut Park
“Tents lined paths, filled with handmade goods all sold by entrepreneurs highlighting their crafts and passions.
Vendors Michelle and Guy Alton expressed the importance of farmers markets on the surrounding community.
→ Soundbite by Guy Alton:
“One thing I noticed is that you’re supporting your local economy, and you’re buying from your local people that’s helping them. For small businesses, it’s really tough sometimes, so it really does beneficial things and it blesses them.”
For the Altons, it is more than just about sales. Events like these help bring awareness and aid to a cause close to their heart.
→ Soundbite by Michelle Alton:
“Just the whole concept of having cancer and everything that goes along with it… there’s so much more than just the diagnosis. And to have the American Cancer Society available, it meant a lot. They just provide support for everything involved in it. Part of the profits we make from the show we give back to the charity.”
Turning a passion into purpose and using an opportunity to give back.
Kami Bremer, NCC News.