June 2, 2025
Ferris State to use MiLEAP grant to provide students greater access to fresh produce at Farmer’s Market
Ferris State University is using a state grant to help students have access to fresh produce from the Downtown Big Rapids Farmer’s Market so they then have healthier meals.
The Downtown Big Rapids Farmers' Market is excited about grant funding that will create greater access to its items for Ferris State University students.
Ferris State, a short distance from downtown Big Rapids, will use grant funding from the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential to encourage students to visit the Farmer’s Market for a wide range of quality items, including many fresh foods.
Ferris State was among 10 Michigan colleges and universities to receive the “Quick Start” grant that supports research and strategic planning that focuses on removing institutional barriers to success.
“As part of our MiLEAP Grant, which we received from the state of Michigan, we have partnered with the city of Big Rapids Farmer’s Market to benefit students,” said Nicholas Campau, Ferris State’s associate dean of Student Life. “As part of our commitment to local vendors, we have generated vouchers that students can use at the Farmers Market to purchase food.”
The grant is the latest effort by campus leaders to help students struggling with food insecurity. The Bulldog Basic Needs Alliance last year opened a large food pantry in the David Eisler Center to help students.
The Downtown Farmer’s Market is located next to Bernie’s Place, 226 N. Michigan Ave, and is open 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Fridays and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays in July and August.
Campau noted that Ferris State plans to disburse $10 worth of vouchers to enrolled students who request them while the Farmer’s Market runs.
“Students can use them immediately or save them for another week to purchase higher dollar items,” he added.
The Downtown Big Rapids Farmer’s Market allows community members and others to shop for locally grown food and other farm-related items. Providing Ferris State students with greater access to the Farmer’s Market is a win for everybody, according to a city of Big Rapids staff member.
“The Downtown Big Rapids Farmers Market is excited for this opportunity to have Ferris Students downtown and coming to the market for their shopping needs,” said Josh Pyles, Big Rapids’ city recreation coordinator and Farmer’s Market manager.
The 2025 Downtown Big Rapids Farmers’ Market season runs through Oct. 31.