Today we’d like to introduce you to Elian Tyson. Them and their team share their story with us below:
Clemson Area Food Exchange (CAFE) is a cooperative group of small farms and gardeners located around the Clemson area. Each grower farms their land using strict standards to ensure that everything produced is chemical-free. All member farms are dedicated to supplying their customers with the freshest and highest quality vegetables, herbs, mill products, dairy, eggs, meats, fruits, flowers, and transplants. Participating farms vary in size and specialty, but all carry the common thread of dedication to community, environment, health, and education.
Our History
CAFE was founded in 2011 through the combined efforts of Lance Howard and Elian Tyson and the input from current member farms. Recognizing and responding to the needs of community members and small business owners, we combine the efforts of individual growers to market their produce. We continue to thrive thanks to our continued customer, volunteer, and producer support. Now we have 10 pickup location options.
We all face challenges, but would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Some years things have gone smoothly. The covid shutdown increased the demand for our products dramatically. We also had to change to minimal contact handoff of goods and services. Then we had to find a new pickup location. It was a stressful year. We moved three times before landing in our current home. Thank goodness our faithful volunteers and producers have helped as much as they have!
We’ve been impressed with Clemson Area Food Exchange (CAFE), but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
We are an online farmer’s market specializing in chemical-free and local food. We also accept monetary and food donations that we give back to the community through Clemson Community Care. We are proud to offer this service to our community.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
We appreciate the diversity and the willingness of customers to support local businesses.
Contact Info:
- Website: clemsonareafoodexchange.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clemsoncafe/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ClemsonAreaFoodExchange/
