An unidentified UK-based donor has committed $300,000 to Change Today, Change Tomorrow (CTCT), a non-profit committed to promoting food justice and sustainable community health. The money, to be distributed at $50,000 annually over six years, will help the West End Farmers Market, the sole farmers market open to more than 60,000 Louisville West End residents.
The pledge is especially important since federal subsidies are being cut off and grassroots groups like CTCT are looking for other funding. Taylor Ryan, Executive Director of CTCT, claims that this gift emphasizes the increasing relevance of personal wealth and private philanthropy in supporting projects started by communities.
“In a moment when federal dollars are drying up, and public investment in communities like ours continues to fall short, this international act of solidarity reminds us that individuals—especially those with generational wealth—have a role to play in resourcing liberation,” said Ryan. “We are shifting from begging institutions to calling in those who believe in redistributing their privilege and investing in community-led systems.”
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The West End Farmers Market opens biweekly on Sundays from 3–7 PM at California Park, running from May 4 through October 5. Recently approved to take advantage of SNAP benefits and engage in the Kentucky Double Dollars program through Community Farm Alliance, the market guarantees cost while giving dignity and access top priority.
“This donation is not just about dollars,” Ryan added. “It’s about believing in Black-led solutions, in food sovereignty, and in the West End community’s power to nourish itself—literally and spiritually.”
Carefully chosen to showcase Black farmers, artists, and craftspeople, the market is more than just a place to buy. It operates as a community hub where cultural celebration and collective care come together. Offerings include:
- Tribe Time & Family Corner: A location for intergenerational activities, kids’ crafts, and resources focusing on family sustainability.
- Fresh RX: Free locally sourced produce pickups for expectant mothers.
- Live Performances and Art: Showcasing local talent and interactive art installations.
- Food Demonstrations and Fellowship: Opportunities to share, taste, and learn together.
The market’s leadership is further supported by the Wild Seed Fund, which has donated $10,000 to ensure a dedicated Farmers Market Director can continue to lead with power and vision.
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CTCT is actively seeking private foundation matches and other individual donors to enhance this form of sustainable funding without compromise or red tape. The organization believes that this international act of philanthropy will inspire other philanthropists and foundations to invest directly in community-grown infrastructure.
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This article appears in Mar 14-27, 2025.