As students head back to the classroom, Mississippi’s two state-run farmers markets are making one final push to collect school supplies.
The Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce is continuing its Back-to-School Supply Drive through Saturday, Aug. 8, giving central Mississippi residents a few more days to donate school supplies to students in need.
The supply drive is underway at both the Mississippi Farmers Market on High Street in Jackson and the Genuine MS Farmers Market at the Brandon Amphitheater. Donations benefit We Will Go Ministries, a local nonprofit that serves the community through education, food assistance, and outreach programs.
Community members, businesses, and organizations are encouraged to donate new school supplies, including backpacks, notebooks, pencils, crayons, markers, folders, glue sticks, and scissors. Collection bins are available throughout both markets.
Agriculture and Commerce Commissioner Andy Gipson said the donations will help students begin the school year with the supplies they need to succeed.
“Items donated at our Mississippi Farmers Market and Genuine MS Farmers Market will help better prepare local students for a successful school year,” Gipson said. “Together, we can help ensure every child begins the school year confident, prepared, and ready to learn.”
Donations can be dropped off at the Mississippi Farmers Market Tuesday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. They also will be accepted during regular Saturday market hours at both locations. The Mississippi Farmers Market is open Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., while the Genuine MS Farmers Market operates every Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon.
Gipson said every contribution will make a difference for local families.
“Every donation, large or small, will help equip local students with the supplies they need for a successful school year while showcasing the community spirit that makes the farmers market a gathering place for giving back,” Gipson said.
The supply drive concludes Saturday during Great American Farmers Market Day, which is part of National Farmers Market Week. In addition to accepting donations, the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce plans to distribute promotional lunch boxes to school-age children while supplies last.
Both markets are operated by the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce.
