PRODUCE TO THE PEOPLE!
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FAQs
What is The Bulb?
The Bulb is a donation-based and nonprofit mobile farmers market. We provide fresh produce that is grown by local farmers, as well as produce rescued from area grocery stores, to food insecure communities in and around Charlotte. Our “take what you need, give what you can” motto means to create a barrier-free environment that promotes accessibility for all people.
What is The Bulb’s mission?
At The Bulb, our mission is to provide mostly local produce, as well as education on health and wellness, to food insecure communities.
Together with local farms, grocery stores and community organizers, we are working to create a world where fresh and nutritious food is a right and not a privilege, while seeking social justice through affordable and attainable education, art and wellness.
What does “food insecurity” mean?
The U.S Department of Agriculture (USDA) defines food insecurity as a lack of consistent access to enough food for an active and healthy lifestyle. Hunger refers to a personal, physical sensation of discomfort, while food insecurity refers to a lack of available resources for food at the household level.
Does Charlotte have residents who face food insecurity?
Yes. Currently over 180,000 residents are considered food insecure.
How can I get a market in my neighborhood?
Our current model is to work with organizations that are invested in a particular community in or around Charlotte. In partnership with the inquiring organization, we first assess the area’s need. Based on findings, we then begin engagement with residents to discover if a market is what people want and will utilize. Using the feedback that is gathered, adjustments can be made such as offering a CSA-style program that delivers pre-made boxes to people’s homes vs a traditional farmers market.
Do you have items other than fresh produce?
Produce is the name of our game at The Bulb! And while we are often able to offer other household staples such as eggs, milk and bread, quantities are limited and not guarenteed.
What is “rescued food”?
Food rescue is the practice of obtaining quality food that would otherwise go to waste from places such as restaurants, grocery stores and farmers markets and distributing it to emergency food programs.
At The Bulb, we work predominantly with local grocery stores. On multiple days of the week, our Food Rescue team picks up, sorts, washes and stores produce to bring to market. Everything deemed “past due” is composted to create nutrient-rich soil for future planting opportunities!
Do you accept WIC or EBT?
We accept EBT and participate in the Double Up program! Double Up doubles the value of federal nutrition benefits spent at participating markets and grocery stores. We hope to offer WIC in the near future, so stay tuned!
How much does produce at the markets cost?
Our markets operate under a “take what you need, give what you can” model. While we do share recommended pricing listed, as well as offer “plus-up” non-produce items for a small donation, we understand that it is not always within an individual or family’s budget to cover the cost of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Are your markets indoor or outdoor?
Under current COVID restrictions and our of respect and care for our most vulnerable customers, our markets are exclusively outdoor opportunities at the moment.
What happens in cases of bad weather?
In the case of inclement weather, we aim to notify guests at least 2 hours prior to the start of a market. Notification is made through community partners, on social media and through text to those that have provided their phone number. If there is an immediate need for food that we are unable to full, we are able to offer referrals to other food programs or agencies.
How can I get involved?
There are MANY ways to get involved with The Bulb, and they can all be found on our website!
What is The Bulb doing to ensure the safety of guests during COVID?
The health and safety of our guests, partners and staff is our TOP priority. As a food-service organization, strict sanitation practices that are in place pre-COVID are now more important than ever.
Only market staff handles food; gloves are required when handling food
Hand sanitizer is always available
Tables and linens are routinely sanitized between markets, and more
In addition, we require all staff and volunteers to wear a mask at our markets. Please keep social distancing in mind.
