Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Foley’s Coastal Alabama Farmers & Fishermens Market marked Thanksgiving early by feeding patrons and neighbors. The market hosted events to support South Baldwin County. Organizers focused on food, fellowship and service. Local vendors and donations made the effort possible.

Activities began Tuesday, Nov. 25, when the market opened a Special PreThanksgiving Market. Shoppers met with favorite vendors to pick up pies, breads and even turkeys. The morning event served both holiday needs and regular grocery shopping.

Produce vendors sold potatoes ready to be mashed and sweet potatoes for candied dishes. Artisans offered early Christmas gifts, and plant sellers carried last minute centerpieces. From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., a steady stream of customers visited.

Some visitors hunted for special holiday treats, while others handled their weekly shopping early because the market will be closed Saturday, Nov. 29. Regular Saturday customers used the weekday hours to stock up on fresh goods.

After closing to shoppers, CAFFM turned to its food drive. From 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., staff and volunteers gave away more than 100 food boxes they had assembled over two days for local households.

Each box held eggs, bread, carrots, potatoes, sweet potatoes, beans, onions, bell peppers, rice and other staples. Organizers said the packages were designed to help families prepare traditional Thanksgiving meals with fresh, healthy ingredients.

All the items were donated outright or bought with money raised for the drive. Many of the contributions came from the market’s own vendors, who supplied produce and other groceries for their neighbors.

Market Manager Alescia Forland said the effort reflects the mission of CAFFM. “Feeding our community is more than just a mission statement,” she said. “It’s in our blood.”

“For many of us it’s what we’ve dedicated our lives to growing or cultivating things to feed our neighbors,” Forland said.

“Our market and our vendors want to support the community that has unwaveringly supported us for more than ten years. No one should ever go hungry.”

CAFFM will remain closed the Saturday after Thanksgiving but reopen Saturday, Dec. 6, with regular Market Day hours from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Staff and vendors are also preparing for the Christmas Night Market on Dec. 11.

That event will run from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and feature bakers with holiday desserts, artisans selling unique gifts, carolers walking through the facility and a visit from Santa for local children and families.