Hillsdale Farmers Market Launches June 18, offering local goods, economic opportunities, and promoting community spirit at Barry Farm Redevelopment
Preservation of Affordable Housing (POAH), the Anacostia Business Improvement District, the Arts & Culture District, and Black + Forth are excited to announce the kickoff of the Hillsdale Farmers Market on Sunday, June 18th, marking the beginning of a community gathering taking place every third Sunday through October. The market, with support from Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED), District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA), and the Far Southeast Family Strengthening Collaborative (FSFSC), will bring fresh energy and enthusiasm to the Barry Farm Redevelopment project showcasing local handmade goods, produce, artisanal makers, fitness instructors, and performers.
Located in the heart of the Barry Farm neighborhood, the Hillsdale Farmers Market is poised to become a hub where former residents, community members, and DC residents can come together to celebrate the community’s rich history and support local businesses. With an array of vendors offering high-quality, locally sourced goods, the market will create a unique shopping experience while fostering economic opportunities.
“We are excited to launch the Hillsdale Farmers Market and contribute to the revitalization of the Barry Farm community,” said Maia Shanklin Robers, Vice President of Real Estate Development
at POAH. “This collaborative effort with the Anacostia BID, Black + Forth and Barry Farm residents reflects our commitment to promoting economic growth, community engagement, and access to fresh, healthy food options. We invite everyone to join us and experience the vibrant energy of this new market.”
The Hillsdale Farmers Market will not only serve as a platform for local entrepreneurs and artisans to showcase their talents, but it will also feature fitness instructors and performers who will entertain and inspire attendees.
“We believe the Hillsdale Farmers Market will become a catalyst for community engagement and pride,” said Kristina Noell, the Executive Director of the Anacostia BID. “By showcasing the talents and creativity of our residents and supporting local businesses, we hope to foster a sense of belonging and contribute to the overall excitement of the forthcoming new community.”
The Hillsdale Farmers Market will benefit from the expertise of Black + Forth, DC’s first Black-owned strip mall which is organizing and managing the events.
“Helping to coordinate the Hillsdale Farmers Markets is a true passion project for us,” said Angel Gregorio, the Founder of Black + Forth. “We are excited to collaborate in order to build community and center DC natives as a part of this farmer’s market. As a native Washingtonian, I understand the significance of this redevelopment project and I’m grateful that POAH is committed to ensuring the former Barry Farm residents aren’t forgotten.”
The Hillsdale Farmers Market will be located at 2600 Firth Sterling Ave. SE and will operate from 10am to 2pm every third Sunday. The market promises to be a family-friendly event, inviting residents of all ages to come and enjoy the festivities, discover local businesses, and connect with their neighbors.
For more information about the Hillsdale Farmers Market, please visit barryfarmredevelopment.org or follow @barryfarmredev on Instagram and Twitter.
About POAH: Preservation of Affordable Housing (POAH) is a nonprofit developer, owner and operator of close to 13,000 affordable homes in eleven states and the District of Columbia. POAH’s mission is to preserve, create and sustain affordable, healthy homes that support economic security and access to opportunity for all.
About Anacostia BID: The Anacostia Business Improvement District supplements existing DC government services and programs, enhances street cleaning, sponsors special events, and advocates for stakeholders. The BID’s goal is simple: maintaining a thriving, safe, clean, vibrant commercial and arts district. The Anacostia BID is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization. In 2022, historic Anacostia was declared the official Arts & Culture District of Washington, DC by Mayor Muriel Bowser.
About Black + Forth: Founded by entrepreneur, philanthropist, and community activist Angel Gregorio, Black + Forth is Washington, DC’s first Black-owned strip mall offering community education and affordable commercial space for Black business owners. Black + Forth offers accessible education, resources and grants while serving as a catalyst for aspiring and growth-stage Black entrepreneurs.
