Franciscan Health Indianapolis is pictured in this 2020 file photo.
The Franciscan Health Weight Loss Center continues its tradition of hosting a weekly farmers market this year. The farmers market provides nutritious options for locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables to the community on the south side of Indianapolis.
The farmers market will take place on Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., beginning June 5 and running through September 25. It is located in the parking lot at 5230 E. Stop 11 Road, across the street from Franciscan Health Indianapolis.
Franciscan Health Bariatric Nurse Coordinator Amy Gillard, founded the farmers market in 2016. Gillard continually looks for creative ways to keep bariatric patients motivated and invested in a weight loss regimen and maintenance efforts. The market provides a safe space for patients to buy healthy foods to assist in weight loss.
Gillard said the farmers market has evolved over the years from seven vendors to nearly 50. What began as a small market with fruits and vegetables now features baked goods, arts and crafts, coffee, fresh flowers and soaps with vendors coming from across central Indiana, including Anderson, Nashville and Columbus. All vendors are certified and licensed by the Marion County Board of Health.
