OUR STORY

Founded in 2000, the Webb City Farmers Market has grown from a small community market with just four vendors— a large farm, a small farm, a baker, and an apiary—into a thriving community hub that celebrates local, sustainable agriculture. The market’s initial goal was clear: to provide a direct, accessible space where local farmers could sell fresh produce and goods to the public. In its first year, the market excitedly saw 20 customer cars at a time, a promising start.

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A key figure behind the market’s creation was Eileen Nichols, chair of the Webb City Chamber's Downtown Committee, who recognized the need for a space where local food could directly connect with local consumers. Eileen’s leadership and vision laid the foundation for what would become an integral part of the community.

 

After operating under the Chamber for five years, market leaders were encouraged to gorw into an entity in its own right. In 2005, the Webb City Farmers Market incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, securing federal tax-exempt status. This move allowed the market to expand its educational initiatives and charitable programs, while also providing a stable framework for fundraising and future growth.

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Growth and Innovation

As the market grew, so did its impact on the community. Over time, it transformed into a vibrant destination for both shoppers and vendors, attracting hundreds of visitors on a typical summer Saturday. The market offers a wide array of local products, from fresh produce to handmade goods, along with live music, cooking demonstrations, and special events that foster community connection.

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One of the most significant milestones in the market’s growth came in 2021 with the opening of a commercial kitchen, which was funded by USDA Rural Development, local businesses like Cardinal Scales, and the city of Webb City. The kitchen, which was previously used by FEMA after the Joplin tornado, is now equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including convection ovens, large walk-in coolers, and a 40-gallon steam kettle. It serves as an incubator for small businesses, helps farmers process their produce, and allows the market to prepare hundreds of meals each week during the summer, including meals for its popular summer feeding programs.

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Community Engagement and Education

The market is deeply committed to community education and engagement. It operates a Kids Community Garden, where children learn about planting, growing, and harvesting food. A volunteer master gardener leads the program, helping more than 200 children connect with the earth and gain hands-on experience in sustainable agriculture.

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Expanding Access to Healthy Food

In addition to providing fresh produce, the market is committed to improving access to healthy food for all community members. The market was the first in Missouri to accept SNAP benefits through a centralized point-of-sale system, and it has partnered with Wholesome Wave to offer Double Up Bucks, which doubles the value of SNAP benefits when used to purchase fresh produce. The market also runs a WIC coupon program funded by local donations, providing low-income families with two $5 coupons to buy fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and eggs. This initiative has been a lifeline for many families, ensuring they have access to healthy, locally grown food.

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Today and the Future​

The market remains focused on its mission of sustaining, nurturing, and enhancing the community through local, healthy food. As the market looks to the future, we are focused on ensuring its long-term sustainability and exploring new opportunities for growth, including expanding educational programming and continuing to foster a deeper sense of community.

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The Webb City Farmers Market is a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together to support local agriculture and healthy living. As it enters its third decade, the market remains a vibrant and essential part of Webb City’s identity, and continues to be a vital resource for both local residents and visitors alike.