The Northeast Ohio Medical University will host its farmers’ market every Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m inside NEW Center in Rootstown.

The NEW Center is approximately a 20-minute drive from Kent State’s main campus.

According to the NEOMED’s website, the market’s mission is to “provide the local community the opportunity to purchase fresh, locally grown and prepared items directly from the people farming and producing them.”

The market is open to the public and provides local produce, cheese and bread. Local vendors include Chaykowski Farms, Bonny’s Bread and Quiroz Farms.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture, “fresh picked, in season produce are at their peak in flavor and nutrition. Additionally, fresh fruits and vegetables are full of ‘antioxidants and phytonutrients.’”

This year’s market began in June and was outside in the NEW Center parking lot until Sept. 22. The market will be hosted inside until Nov. 18.

“This is my first time coming here, and I wish I knew about it earlier,” said Thomas Finegan, a community member. “The produce is cheaper and more fresh here than at a grocery store. On top of that, I get to help local farmers.”

Ashleigh Metzinger is the health reporter, contact her at [email protected].