As in most "deserts," things still bloom. That's how the Cochise County Mobile Food Market was born — when a farmer in McNeil, Arizona, convinced other local farmers to pool their resources and start a co-op to make reaching those in need a little easier.

By nearly the end of its second year in operation, the co-op started its mobile unit. Now it can reach pockets in need where few to no farmers markets exist.

The service has been running since May of this year, and the Willcox community and Northern Cochise Community Hospital were fortunate to have their first visit today. The program is operated by the McNeil Co-op and partnered with both the Cochise County Health Department and The University of Arizona's Cooperative Extension. They are bringing much-needed nutrition and helping to improve the quality of life for many Cochise County residents.

The mobile unit arrived, allowing photographs of its products while staff set up. An impressive array of tomatoes, green beans, zucchini and much more were stacked neatly in bins with easy access for customers. A collaborative staff representing the unit's partnerships greeted visitors and then the mobile unit was open for business.

As people watched the line, the excitement at having access to fresh produce was palpable. A gentleman originally from Philadelphia who had just moved there expressed his excitement at the prospect of joining in. The line kept getting longer, with people from Pearce, St. David and Benson — not to mention Willcox and the employees at the hospital — present.

There were also representatives from the Cochise County Health Department and The University of Arizona handing out health and safety materials.

By the time two hours had passed, the market was nearly sold out!

The community looks forward to its return on Aug. 22, 2025.