Free meals will be available at two Swannanoa locations for ALL kids under 18 this summer – no questions asked and no strings attached! The federally-funded Summer Meals Program provides healthy, nutritious meals to school-age kids at sites throughout the County. The program, which helps keep kids healthy while school is out, is coordinated by Buncombe County Schools and the YMCA of WNC, in partnership with a large group of dedicated volunteers.

Here’s the schedule:
Owen Pool, 117 Stone Drive (next to Owen Middle School) – meals served Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. – noon.

Ridgeview Mobile Home Park, 49 Alan Campos Circle – Meals served Monday through Friday from 11:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.

There’s a thriving farmers market “scene” in the Swannanoa Valley, with several great offerings to choose from.

The new Riceville Community Market takes place on Saturdays, from 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., at the Riceville Volunteer Fire Department, 2251 Riceville Road. The Riceville market offers fresh produce, crafts, baked goods and more. The market’s goal is to promote community relationships and support local farmers, artists and crafters. If you’d like more information or are interested in being a vendor, call 828-215-0601 or send an email to ricevillecommunitymkt@gmail.com.

The Black Mountain Tailgate Market (130 Montreat Road) features organic and sustainably grown produce, plants, cut flowers, herbs, locally raised meats, seafood, breads, pastries, cheeses, eggs and local arts and handcrafted items. The market takes place every Saturday from 9 a.m. – noon.

And last but not least, the Warren Wilson College Farmers Market happens on Fridays from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., outside the Gladfelter cafeteria on the Warren Wilson campus. Shoppers can purchase seasonal fruits and vegetables, fresh herbs and herbal products, cut flowers, eggs, and pasture-based chicken, pork, lamb, and beef, all grown and raised on the 1000 acre campus.

Eat Fresh. Shop Local.