Community-building Events

Social, cultural and outdoor gatherings

Northeast LA Mercadito (or “Little Market”) is a market-style food distribution where families can receive free, fresh produce. LA Más first launched in September 2020, in partnership with community organizations Food Forward, Elysian Valley Community Garden, LA Compost and other local partners. As of May 2022, Mercadito is fully led and operated by local residents. A group of 9 residents make up the Mercadito leadership team and are supported by 40+ regular volunteers. LA Más continues to provide advisory support to sustain the program.

An offshoot of the Northeast LA Community Response, the Mercadito began as a way to reduce barriers to food access while creating new initiatives with our neighbors. It evolved into a weekly resource for neighbors – alleviating food insecurity, while serving as a place of community building and learning. Residents from different neighborhoods across Northeast LA gather, while learning about urban gardens, compost and food waste. Guests from the community and local organizations also visit to share resources with residents.

Learn more about the initiative’s beginnings in our 2020 Mercadito Report.

Join Us

Stay updated on the next community-building event by visiting our Northeast LA Events Calendar.

Get Involved

If you are interested in attending a gathering or co-hosting an activity or trip (such as hiking, bike ride, art workshop, etc.), please contact Melissa at melissa[at]mas.la.

Partners

Past community-building partners and co-hosts include:

• Coyotl + Macehualli

• Nature for All

• North East Trees

• Black Walnut Day Coalition

• Audubon Center at Debs Park