PonckHockie Market is not just a grocery store; it's a community revolution, born from the need for accessible, healthy food in Ponckhockie, a neighborhood in Kingston, NY recognized as a food desert. Created by Community Action of Ulster County and THRIVE ON! Network (THRIVE ON!), our market is a beacon of hope, aiming to transform the local food landscape.

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Community Action of Ulster County has long been a pillar for those in need, offering essential services like basic needs support, educational programs, and energy conservation assistance. This organization is part of a larger network, extending its reach and impact within the community through collaborative efforts.

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THRIVE ON! focuses on empowering communities to take charge of their local economies. They encourage and support community-driven projects, and it was through their early thriver program that our market concept turned into reality.

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In September 2023, fueled by ambition to reform the food system, two early thrivers from THRIVE ON!, Trent and Ahmad, took to the streets of PonckHockie. They engaged with local organizations and people, absorbing the community's needs and aspirations. Their groundwork laid the foundation for what would become the PonckHockie Market.

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With unwavering dedication, the market was designed to be more than a place to shop; it was to be a cornerstone for community development and engagement. By December of 2023, the market had its soft launch, signaling a new era for the neighborhood's access to fresh food and community unity. Now, as we look back from 2024, we're inspired by the progress we've made and the bonds we've forged.