Connecting Community & Food
They say “you are what you eat,” and here at Bushel & Peck, we believe that applies not just to individuals, but entire communities. To build a vibrant, flourishing community, it’s essential that all of us have access to healthy, local food. Our mission is simple: support local farmers and artisans, and close the gap between people and the products that keep us fueled.
Community Markets Inc. Partners with Bushel & Peck to Feed Families and Support Farmers
February 26, 2024 – Community Markets Inc. (“CMI”) has partnered with Bushel & Peck to feed hungry Appalachian families while supporting local farmers. Both Charles Town-based, nonprofit organizations exist, in part, to increase access to healthy foods grown by local farmers and bring their unique strengths and connections to complement the partnership.
Through the initiative, Bushel & Peck invites patrons of its brick-and-mortar, year-round, indoor farmers market grocery store to sponsor one or more pounds of food which, once the goal is reached, is distributed out free of charge to needy families by CMI at an upcoming Food Box Giveaway. Most recently, Bushel & Peck customers raised enough money to donate 200 lbs. of organic and locally grown orange, purple, red, and yellow carrots to CMI which will be distributed in Martinsburg on Tuesday, February 27th from 11-1 pm at the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Department.
“Community Markets Inc. and Bushel & Peck are demonstrating the increased impact that like-minded organizations can have through collaboration,” stated CMI Director Mark Peiffer. “We’re sending the unifying message that Jefferson County local food and agriculture nonprofits stand together in our shared mission of supporting our farmers and feeding underserved families in our community.”
Julie Philabaum, Bushel & Peck’s store manager, added, “This partnership just proves how much stronger we are when we work together.”
Bushel & Peck will do another round of fundraising within the next few months. The next time you shop at Bushel & Peck, ask about how you can help feed hungry families with healthy food grown by local farmers.
Community Markets Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Charles Town, WV whose mission is to connect locally grown food to families in need. All programs and activities of CMI strengthen food security and increase access to locally grown food for underserved families in West Virginia. As of January 2024, CMI has fed 6,000 people in the Eastern Panhandle and Potomac Highlands and put $80,000 back into local farmers pockets. To learn more, visit www.communitymarketsinc.org and like CMI on Facebook at www.facebook.com/communitymarketsinc.
Bushel & Peck is owned and operated by Jefferson Growers, Artisans, and Producers Coalition, which also operates the Charles Town Farmers Market. Jefferson Growers, Artisans, and Producers Coalition is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Charles Town, WV whose mission is to provide area farmers, artisans, musicians and other non-profits with alternative marketing opportunities through a retail marketplace, as well as to encourage agriculture and cultural entrepreneurship in the region; and to provide consumers with fresh, locally grown or locally produced products in a convenient location; and to provide a reoccurring community gathering opportunity to enhance and promote community awareness, cooperation and cultural unity. To learn more follow Bushel & Peck on social media: @bushelandpeckwv
Our Story
A Stroll through the heart of Charles Town, WV, and there’s no question you’re surrounded by history.
In this spirit, a plan was hatched a few years ago to renovate one of the city’s most beloved structures—Charles Washington Hall—and return it to its original purpose as a town market, cultural center, and economic cornerstone. It would soon become home to an indoor version of the Charles Town Farmers Market.
The Jefferson Growers, Artisans and Producers Coalition, Inc. (GAP) was formed to oversee both this popular street market and the development of its sister grocery store.
Bushel & Peck opened in October 2017 to support GAP’s aim of helping revive and grow the area’s deeply-rooted agricultural tradition—not only by providing local farms and businesses with a unique retail opportunity, but by increasing community access to fresh veggies, meats, and more.
The way we see it, Bushel & Peck is a small but vital part of a much larger, collaborative effort, ever-evolving in response to the particular needs and wants of the community. It is equally a place and a platform: To showcase. To educate. To connect.
As we stretch toward the future, we are thrilled to serve as a space of learning and source of nourishment for locals and visitors alike.
Behind the Scenes
-
Todd Coyle
Executive Director
Todd is a lifelong resident of Jefferson County and has been a working musician for 40 years. Todd’s family goes back in Jefferson County to the 1700’s. He is one of the founding members of the Charles Town Farmers Market and the Jefferson G.A.P. Coalition, as well as serving on the County Development Authority as Treasurer and chair of the ag committee.
Todd oversees G.A.P.’s day-to-day business needs, and as support staff for Bushel & Peck and CTFM.
-
Julie Philabaum
Store Manager
Julie relocated to Charles Town back in 2017 and quickly fell in love with downtown, the farmers market, and Bushel & Peck. She has a host of customer service and social media marketing experience with a Bachelors of Science in Media Arts and Animation.
Julie serves on Charles Town City Council and is a fervent supporter of the downtown community.
-
Patrick Browning
Store Associate
Patrick is a lifelong resident of Jefferson County with experience in computer science and community service. Becoming a regular customer at the Charles Town Farmers Market sparked his interest in local/regional foods and small business. Patrick joined the B&P team in the fall of 2021 and has been a valued member ever since.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
No, it doesn’t. Many small farmers practice organic methods but can’t afford the certificates. One of the benefits of farmers markets and locally sourced groceries is you can get to know your farmer. Most are happy to tell you how they do it. Ask.
-
There are many definitions of what local means. Each market has to decide for themselves. The Bushel and Peck defines local as within 50 miles of Jefferson County.
-
If you’re a local or regional grower, artisan, or producer—or have an interesting idea or product—please send an email to bushelandpeckwv@gmail.com.
-
For questions about Bushel & Peck, please email bushelandpeckwv@gmail.com.
Questions about the Charles Town Farmers Market should please be directed to charlestownfarmersmarket@gmail.com.
