Nestled in the heart of downtown Salina, Kansas, Prairieland Market is a vibrant testament to what happens when a community comes together to champion local, healthy, and organic food. What started as a modest food co-op in the late 1970s has blossomed into a thriving hub of nourishment, education, and connection.
We sat down with Vickee Spicer, the Executive Director of Prairieland Market, to get the scoop on this brilliant new hub of healthy living in Salina.
A Journey of Growth
Prairieland’s story is nothing short of inspiring. From a mere 800 square feet of sales space to a sprawling 3,500-square-foot marketplace, they’ve more than quadrupled their footprint—and their offerings. Once limited to cooking one day a week offsite, they now whip up fresh, delicious meals daily in-house, doubling their prepared food options.
Their 2016 introduction of a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program brought fresh, local produce to more tables, reinforcing their mission to provide access to healthy, sustainable food in an area previously considered a food desert.
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Community at the Core
The transformation of Prairieland Market into its current state wasn’t just a renovation—it was a revolution fueled by community support. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Vickee set an ambitious goal to raise a million dollars for the new expansion and exceeded her target by pulling in $1.3 million. Contributions poured in from individuals, organizations, and local businesses, with board members alone pledging $400,000. Even the Kansas Department of Agriculture stepped up, contributing essential equipment.
The fact that Prairieland Market was awarded 6 out of 6 grant applications is a testament to how important this new concept in healthy living truly is. And perhaps a testament to just how well Vickee can write a grant proposal. 😉
Now, with construction fully paid off, new kitchen and display equipment procured and installed, and a sleek new website, Prairieland Market is ready to take on the next chapter.
A Mini-Whole Foods (TM) with Local Flair
Imagine a cozy, local version of Whole Foods, and you’ve got Prairieland Market. They’re the only place in Salina offering many unique items, from local meats and cheeses to regional milk and gluten-free goodies.
Frozen and prepared foods? Check.
Baked goods like bierocks, breads, and muffins? Check-check.
Want to upgrade your hydration with reverse osmosis or de-ionized water? Yep! They’ve got you covered there, too.
You can even sign up for the CSA and receive weekly or bi-weekly selections of local produce. Or simply stop by and choose from the available selection. There’s always something fresh and colorful ready for you.
While you’re there, why not replace your old boring standby pantry staples with something healthier. The new shelves are fully stocked with hundreds of options for exploring organic, gluten-free and more.
Grand Opening and Exciting Plans
Prairieland Market’s official grand opening on November 9, 2024, marks the beginning of even more exciting developments. A liquor license is on the horizon, café furniture is arriving soon, and a bar across the front is in the works, so you’ll have a place to relax while watching the hustle and bustle of our beloved downtown Salina.
Prairieland’s mission doesn’t stop at food. Education is key to their vision, with cooking and nutrition classes coming soon. From canning and pickling to meal prep and salsa-making, these classes will be offered live and in-person, with videos available to watch later on their website. Many classes will even be offered free thanks to partnerships with the Salina Food Bank and the K-State Research & Extension Office.
A Taste of the Future
Looking ahead, Prairieland Market has much more in store for the community. They have plans for expanding their bakery offerings, and launching catering options, just to name a couple.
Snack boards for parties? Yes, please.
Pre-order sides and pies for Christmas? Absolutely.
With yet another nod to their culture of partnership, they’re even collaborating with local restaurants to resell sauces and specialty items.
Prairieland Market isn’t just a store—it’s a movement. With a mission to improve lives through healthy food and education, they’ve created a space where community and nourishment thrive hand in hand.
So, whether you’re picking up fresh produce, grabbing a warm cinnamon roll, or learning to make your own applesauce, Prairieland Market invites you to be part of the magic. Stop by, shop local, and support a vision that’s feeding Salina’s soul.
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