The Mobile Food Market (MFM) is a unique, community-driven initiative designed to make fresh produce accessible to everyone in our community, regardless of income level.
This initiative relies on the participation of everyone in the community. Here’s why:
- Sustaining Affordability: Our market operates on a sliding scale pricing model, meaning that prices paid are what customers can afford. The menu of fruits and vegetables offered each week costs the food bank $10 – $15 per basket. We encourage those who can afford to pay more to do so, as this helps subsidize the cost for those who cannot. Often, even when customers pay $10, they save 30-40% compared to retail prices. If someone’s basic needs are at risk, they can visit our sites in person and pay the subsidized fee per basket which is $5.00. Customers choose what they can afford to pay, no questions asked. This model helps ensure that fresh, nutritious food is accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. Your support in paying full price or even a bit more directly contributes to making this initiative sustainable and accessible for all.
- Reducing Stigma: By encouraging people from all walks of life to shop at the Mobile Food Market, we create a more inclusive and welcoming environment. This reduces the stigma often associated with food assistance programs, making it easier for those who need help to access it without feeling singled out.
- Building Community:The Mobile Food Market is more than just a place to buy food—it’s a space where community members can connect, share, and support each other. When people of all incomes come together at the market, we foster a sense of belonging and mutual respect that strengthens our community as a whole. A recent MFM survey tells us that 35% of people connected with additional support as a result of visiting the MFM.
- Promoting Food Security: Food security is a community-wide issue that requires a community-wide response. 92% of people who shop at the Mobile Food Market say that it has helped stretch their grocery budget and 87% are eating more fruits and vegetables. By shopping at the Mobile Food Market, you’re not only accessing fresh, healthy food for yourself, but you’re also supporting a program that ensures everyone in our community has access to nutritious food
Hours and Locations
The Mobile Food Market travels to many locations throughout Cambridge and one in Ayr. You can find our schedule and locations on our website or by following our social media channels. Shopping at the Mobile Food Market is simple—just visit the market at any of our scheduled stops, select your fresh produce, and pay what you can afford by cash or tap your card.
If you can’t make it to one of our in-person locations, you can still shop with us online and pick up your order at a local community center. This convenient option ensures you have access to fresh, affordable produce even if you can’t visit the Mobile Food Market in person. For more details and to start shopping, click here.
By shopping with us, you’re contributing to healthier people, a more connected community, and supporting environmental sustainability as the market purchases local produce whenever possible during the growing season.
Your participation makes a difference—thank you for supporting the Mobile Food Market!
