Fort Valley State University Professor fights back against hunger

The market is located at 1149 John Hope Road in Fort Valley.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – A Fort Valley State University professor is fighting hunger with a local market to serve Peach County residents.

Fort Valley State University professor Hamidah Amanyi, owner of Sweet Valley Farm in Fort Valley, said she comes from a long line of farmers, dating back to her great-grandparents in the 1800s. She said her family taught her the importance of feeding themselves and their community.

“But lately the food is getting harder to reach the tables from the farms, even though were located right here. And so, this particular market is meant to provide the community with an opportunity to access fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, at a price they don’t have to over think, and that fits well into their budget”, Amanyi said.

With the cost of fresh produce rising in grocery stores, Amanyi believes everyone should have access to fresh food. For that reason, all products at the market are sold for $1 or less.

“So, we put together a bundle of ten items, that are ten staple items that every family uses on a weekly basis. And they can come here with just ten dollars, or nine dollars, or eight dollars, or whatever they have, and they can go home with a bag full of food for their families”, Amanyi said.

She said everyone is welcome at her food stand, regardless of background.

“This is a very diverse community. There are people who are struggling, there are people on middle income, there are large families, seniors, and growing families. So, this location is an essential location, and being here at the family farm provides the community a way to come out and see where the food comes from. Their children get to play in the hay; and so, it becomes an experience for the entire family”, Amanyi said.

The market is located at 1149 John Hope Road in Fort Valley. It is open Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m.