Written By Jan Sims
KOMOKA - Christmas food shopping will soon be behind us, but there’s a new way to keep shopping for fresh and delicious products while supporting local vendors.
The Komoka Community Market has expanded from being a seasonal operation outside the Komoka Wellness Centre, to offering a range of local products beyond the summer with its online Food Hub known at the KCM FoodHub.
Customers order online at kcmfoodhub.com between Monday morning and Thursday night. Pickup is Saturdays at Komoka United Church.
“The Hub is needed to create strong community, local economy, and sustainable food systems. If local businesses are given consistent and sufficient support, they will be there when they are needed most. It is important that people recognize what an impact their dollars make,” says Hub organizer Amy Watt. “The Hub is needed to stabilize and grow income for local businesses, and their products create healthy bodies, healthier land, in many cases, and healthier communities,” adds Watt.
Although the Hub has been up and running only since the fall, it has already found a loyal customer base and support from local vendors. “Vendors manage their product presentation and inventory online. They can communicate directly with customers as well. The Hub facilitates direct sales and vendors contribute financially to help Hub operate,” says Watt.
Each week a customer orders, they’re entered in a draw to win $50 in “Hub Bucks.” “Many customers return each week. Customers comment on the quality, freshness, uniqueness of their purchases. Customers enjoy supporting their favourite vendors and a few new ones too!,” says Watt.
New products are being added and the KCM FoodHub looks to community feedback to help it move forward. “We have an amazing selection already, and some new products coming December 29 (Storefront opens after brief Christmas break) will really round out all of the main categories,” says Watt.
