If you’re looking for an alternative to the farmer’s market this year, due to our ever-changing restrictions and mandates, while still being able to support local producers, joining Northumberland County REKO Networks just might be your solution.
Even if you plan on frequenting local farmers’ markets, and I hope you do, you may need a mid-week top-up on some of your locally grown veggies or a bar of handmade soap. REKO Networks are a good choice for this scenario too.
What Is A REKO Network?
A REKO Network is a Facebook-based platform that allows direct sales from producers to consumers.
It is an easy way to buy locally produced goods, minus the middle man.
It’s basically like a Facebook farmers market.
You have the opportunity to ask the producers directly about what you are buying, safely from the comfort of your own home.
How REKO Networks Work
This is a fairly straightforward process where producers post what they have available that week and consumers comment with the amount of each product they would like.
The producer confirms the order. The order is binding and all goods must be picked up at the agreed upon time.
It looks a little something like this:
Each REKO location has a set day and time each week for pick-up.
REKO Networks Around Northumberland County
We are very fortunate to have quite a few REKO’s in our area.
Here is a list of REKO Networks to help you choose one that is closest to you.
In no particular order:
Bowmanville REKO Network
Pick-up Date: Thursdays
Pick-up Time: 5:45pm – 6:30pm
Pick-up Location: Garnet Rickard Arena – West Parking Lot: 2440 Hwy 2, Bowmanville
Find them on Facebook.
Brighton REKO Network
Pick-up Date: Thursdays
Pick-up Time: 5:00pm – 6:00pm
Pick-up Location: Kindly delivered by Andrew Vokes (administrator) to your house.
Find them on Facebook.
Cobourg REKO Network
Pick-up Date: Thursdays
Pick-up Time: 5:45pm – 6:45pm
Pick-up Location: Habitat For Humanity Restore Parking Lot: 764 Division Street, Cobourg
Find them on Facebook.
Millbrook/Cavan REKO Network
Pick-up Date: Thursdays
Pick-up Time: 5:00pm – 6:00pm
Pick-up Location: Old Millbrook School Parking Lot: 1 Dufferin Street, Millbrook
Find them on Facebook.
How To Join A REKO Network
Now that you know which REKO is the closest to you, it’s a cinch to join.
All you have to do is join their Facebook group. That’s it.
It’s just that easy to support your local merchants and help keep your local economy thriving.
If you belong to a REKO Network, feel free to give it a shout-out in the comments and let everyone know how awesome it is!
Stay Local,
Kathy & Jon
Your Friendly Neighbourhood Growers