The Lealman Exchange, a community center located at 5175 45th St. N., is set to become the home of a new farmers market starting in October.
The Lealman Farmers Market will operate on the fourth Sunday of every month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., providing residents with regular access to fresh, locally sourced fruits, vegetables, herbs, honey and more. More than a dozen vendors have already signed up, with spots available for up to 35 vendors in total.
This initiative aims to address the community’s lack of fresh food options and create stronger connections between residents and local Florida farmers.
Lealman, like many urban areas, has faced challenges in providing its residents with easy access to fresh, nutritious food options. Local officials have spent time and money to uplift the community, a food desert due to its lack of a single grocer. The introduction of the new farmers market is a strategic move to combat this issue by bringing local farmers and food producers directly to residents.
“Bringing a food market that offers fresh produce and healthy food options to the Lealman community is a vital step in promoting the well-being of its residents,” said Tom Almonte, Pinellas County Assistant County Administrator. “This initiative ensures that all residents, regardless of income, have the opportunity to make healthier food choices, ultimately leading to a stronger, more resilient community.”
The choice of the Lealman Exchange as the venue for the farmers market is significant. The community center, operated as a public/private partnership between Pinellas County and the St. Petersburg Foundation, already serves as a hub for various community services and events.
“Beyond addressing food access, our goal is for the Lealman Farmers Market to serve as a community gathering space,” said Joe Hamilton, cofounder of the St. Petersburg Foundation. “When people convene in a positive environment, they build relationships that help create a more aligned and resilient community, which makes life better.”
Market organizers are still seeking local farmers, artisans and food producers. More information about the Lealman Farmers Market, including upcoming dates and a vendor sign-up form, is available online here.
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The St. Petersburg Foundation (SPF) is the philanthropic arm of the St. Petersburg Group (SPG), which owns the St. Pete Catalyst.
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