Frequently Asked Questions for the Lower 9th Ward Market 1. What are the operating hours of the Lower 9th Ward Market? The market operates once a month on the second Saturday from 9 AM to 1 PM. 2. Where is the Lower 9th Ward Market located? The market is located at the former Light City Church & Light Christian Academy building - parking lot. The area is in the Lower 9th Ward, New Orleans. 3. Why is there a separation between the three types of vendors? The market separates vendors into three categories: a.established businesses, b.emerging businesses, and c.those without official credentials. This ensures proper compliance with city regulations while providing tailored support for each vendor type. The third is a vendor with credentials who arrive on market day. 4. I'm a vendor without credentials. How does the market assist me? The city of New Orleans has recently updated its stance on vending. See the Gambit Article under NEWS ITEMS. To assist newer businesses, we require an initial Zoom meeting to review your products or services. Following this, we help you plan the best way to proceed. Here are the steps for vendors without credentials: Create QR Codes: Generate QR codes that link directly to your point of sales accounts such as PayPal, Zelle, etc. Add our email to your account to ensure accurate tracking on market days. Point of Sales Representation: We will act as your point of sales representative, ensuring total sales are tracked accurately. You are welcome to assist but we must control the sales tracking. Sales Tracking and Reporting: At the end of the market day, you are required to pay 5% of the sales generated. City Payments: We will pay this fee directly to the city on your behalf. 5. What kind of products are available at the market? The market features a variety of products including fresh produce, handmade crafts, clothing, baked goods, and sustainable items. We do want to see more handcrafted items than producted that are manufactured. 6. How can I become a vendor at the market? Interested vendors can apply through our website or contact us directly for an application. We welcome vendors with an Occupational License from the City of New Orleans and those who are in the process of obtaining one. 7. Are there any special events or workshops at the market? Yes, the market hosts regular workshops and demonstrations on topics such as composting, recycling, urban gardening, financial support, crafting with cardboard, and basic canning of fruits and vegetables. 8. What facilities are available for vendors at the market? Vendors receive a 10x10 parking space within the market's parking lot. If electricity is required, there is an additional charge. Vendors must bring their own signage, tables, chairs, and tents. We will have water available for sale. 9. Are there bathrooms available at the market? Yes, our facilities have 5 (3 enclosed stalls) and two open men's stalls and 5 women enclosed stalls for vendors only. 10. Are the restroom stalls handicap accessible? Yes there are. 11. How does the market support sustainable practices? The market emphasizes sustainability through the promotion of recycling, upcycling, and eco-friendly products. Our monthly drop-off and recycling station accepts various recyclable items, ensuring that all donated items are cleaned or cleaned off before being accepted. 12. How does the market collaborate with the community? The market collaborates with community partners like the Lower 9th Ward Welcome Home Garden, and 9th Ward 24 Carrot Gardens. We have begun to do monthly community meetings at Welcome Home Farms and have identofied a gatekeepers to maintain and care for the property. Our other area of focus has been the St. Roch neighborhood. We have strong community ties with Kolaj Institute, Hi-Ho Lounge and St. Rock Community Church. 13. Is the market free? Yes. 14. Will your vendors be able to accept credit cards? Yes. In addition to some of our vendors will be able to accept SNAP. Each vendor who does accept SNAP must have this signage at their tables or stalls. 15. Who can I contact for more information about the market? For more information, you can contact Myra Caesar Wiltz (504) 621-3422, or The Recycle Challenge mobile number is (347) 735-1257. Our email address is therecyclechallenge1@gmail.com, or visit our website at www.the-recycle-challenge.com.