Market on the Move in East Valley & More Locations, Saturday ~ 60 lbs of Produce for $10
Market on the Move is coming to the East Valley this Saturday, March 10th. There are also many other Valley location as well as locations in Tucson & Maricopa. See a list of locations & times.
It's the first time they will be in Chandler:
Desert Palms Church
4265 S. Arizona (south of Ocotillo & Home Depot), 8am – 12pm
Also note that there's an East Valley location that isn't on the list. If I understand it correctly, they are doing their own ministry now, but it's the same produce, same cost. (It won't be on upcoming schedules either, but it's always on the second Saturday, through May.)
Produce with a Purpose
Boys & Girls Club of Gilbert
(on Elliot, just west of Gilbert Rd), 8am – 11am
They have a Facebook page with information.
I've written more about it before. Basically, you can get up for 60 pounds of produce for $10. Wait times and selection varies each week and at each location. The earlier you get there, the better the selection is, but unless you get there really early, it's more crowded. I went earlier a couple weeks ago and waited close to an hour. I decided it's just not worth it for me. If I go, I'll go later and just get what they have left, which usually meant you can walk right up.
If you are thinking about going, I suggest you "like" them on Facebook. They will be posting what produce you can expect and any other changes they want to communicate.
I agree that Market on the Move is not for everyone – it may take a while to get the produce and you're limited to what is on hand. I think MOM is probably best for someone who has a more limited disposable income, not someone who is just trying to save a little money. MOM is great for someone who would not otherwise be able to afford the fresh produce and, therefore is not too picky about what the produce is. It's also great for someone who knows someone who fits within that category and can spare the time to share the produce with that person.
You're right. I met with the co-founder and she said that the "face of the poor has changed so much recently." She's right! Many people are struggling that appear to be fine because they're still living in a nice house, but they're on the brink of financial disaster.
I love getting it because it's so much more than we can use. I get at least $10 worth out of it and am still able to give a bunch away. It's fun to brighten someone's day and help them out, in a small way. Even if they don't "need" it, it's appreciated.
If you are expecting to make a salad with it, it's not for you. You have to get creative and work with what they have. Check the Facebook link before you go and expect that they might be out of one or two items, if you don't get there early. Personally, I decided it's not worth the wait.
I discovered I love zucchini and squash — sauteed or on the BBQ. I had that with asparagus (grocery store) for breakfast this morning. Yes, I have strange breakfast eating habits. I don't rule out cake or junk food from time to time either. It's an open meal for me. :)
Thanks for sharing your thoughts for others to get a better idea what it is!