Thanks to Our Lady of the Angels Hospital and to Mike Norman, whose non-profit Abita Grows Initiative has included in its mission statement the challenge “to develop local, robust farmers’ markets and increase access to locally produced food for low income members of the community,” the new Bogalusa Farmers’ Market will make its debut today at the hospital’s Family Fest.

And anybody who has a SNAP card will get tokens for double the amount they spend, up to $20 on opening day.

Norman, who is the manager of the Abita Springs Farmers’ Market, will also manage the Bogalusa market.

For those who want to take advantage of the freshest produce, as well as items like jams and jellies made from those ingredients, the market will be open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Goodyear Park.

Fresh food has been proven to benefit both physical and mental health. And, unless you have a garden of your own to go pick from, locally grown means the freshest available to you.

We truly are what we eat, so eat for your health, and become a regular at the Bogalusa Farmers’ Market.