Northeast LA Mercadito
Resident-led resource sharing in Northeast Los Angeles
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
Come by every other Friday from 2-3PM (or until supplies last). For exact dates, visit our Northeast LA Events Calendar.
The distribution takes place at 1763 Blake Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90039. Masks are optional.
Get Involved
If you are interested in volunteering with Mercadito leaders, please contact nelamercadito1[at]gmail.com.
Partners
This initiative has been made possible by a collective of community organizations, foundations, government partners, and residents who have donated time, resources and/or funds.
Community Partners: Elysian Valley Community Garden, LA Compost
Distribution Partners: Food Forward, Landmark Global
Funders: CIT Bank, LISC LA, AARP, Council District 13