INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana - Franciscan Health Weight Loss Center's weekly farmers market is back for its seventh year, providing options for nutritious local produce and hand-made wares each Wednesday.

The farmers market takes place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesdays through September 27, 2023 in the parking lot of the Franciscan Health Weight Loss Center at 5230 East Stop 11 Road in Indianapolis.

Franciscan Health Bariatric Nurse Coordinator Amy Gillard, BSN, RN, founded the farmers market in 2016. Gillard said she is always seeking creative ways to keep her bariatric patients motivated and invested in their weight loss and maintenance efforts.

"I heard some of the comments from patients and the barriers they faced, whether it be transportation or cost of goods, so I thought, what if we brought some local farmers over to us that could maybe offer an alternative to traditional grocery stores?" Gillard said. "This market provided a safe space where they could explore and buy healthy foods to assist in their weight loss. Not only does it benefit the patients and staff but ultimately the community."

Gillard said the farmers market has evolved over the years from seven vendors to nearly 50. What started as a small market with fruits and vegetables now has baked goods, arts and crafts, coffee, fresh flowers and soaps with vendors coming from as far away as Anderson, Nashville and Columbus.

"It is never the same market each week, which is exciting," Gillard said. "I have the most amazing vendors. What they don't know is how much they have taught and motivated me to make this such a great event for the patients and community."

For more information or to inquire about vendor opportunities, please contact Amy Gillard at 317-528-6711. 



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