Free Market Returns To The Q House

Members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. at last year's Free Market. Contributed Photos.

The following citizen contribution was submitted by Jewel Booker, a former Youth Arts Journalism Initiative (YAJI) student and a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated. Read more of her writing here.

For one morning this June, the Dixwell Q House becomes a place where community members can find everything from clothing and household essentials to fresh food, health resources, and support services—all at no cost.

This year marks a significant expansion for the event. Free Market attendees will be welcomed with shopping bags and "Free Market Dollars" that can be used to browse thousands of donated items. Clothing, shoes, household goods, personal care products, children's clothing, and toys will all be available. In addition to connecting with health and social services providers, for the first time, they can also explore a farmers' market.

“Our mission has always been rooted in service, and the Free Market & Health Fair is one of the most impactful ways we bring that mission to life,” said Katrina Rice, president of the New Haven Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. “Every family we serve, every health screening provided, and every partnership formed represents our commitment to uplifting the greater New Haven community.

“We are proud to continue this tradition and grateful to our sponsors, community partners, and volunteers whose dedication makes this day possible year after year,” Rice added.

The event reflects the longstanding commitment to service shared by the organizations behind it. For more than a century, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. have centered their missions on uplifting communities through education, advocacy, and service.

"This event is the embodiment of what our organizations stand for," said Ruel Dixon, basileus of the Epsilon Iota Iota Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. "Since 1911 and 1913, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., have given back through programs focused on community service."

For many New Haven residents, the event offers more than access to free necessities. It provides opportunities to connect with organizations that can help address health, economic, and social needs. Organizers said they hope attendees leave not only with items they need, but also with information and resources that can support their long-term well-being.

Joining the longtime partners in hosting the market and fair are the Delta Foundation of Greater New Haven and the H.A.V.E. Foundation, which are helping to broaden the reach and impact of one of New Haven's largest community service initiatives.

"The Annual Free Market and Health Fair has served thousands of people in New Haven and surrounding areas since 2012, improving quality of life and health access," said Lisa Crutchfield Diggs, president of the Delta Foundation of Greater New Haven. "We're proud to join this tremendous effort."

At a time when many families continue to navigate rising costs and economic uncertainty, the event's organizers said community partnerships are more important than ever. The addition of the H.A.V.E. Foundation reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that residents have access to support when they need it most.

"We know that times are challenging, so this year we are especially proud that we can help the community by becoming part of this long-standing tradition," said Kevin Walton, president of the H.A.V.E. Foundation.

Ryan Phillips, a member of the Epsilon Iota Iota chapter of Omega Psi Phi and a student at Southern Connecticut State University, has been volunteering at the Free Market for two years.

He reflects upon his experiences at The Free Market. “So many people were around helping with all the clothes and other items that were being donated, we all stood out in the hot sun, and even sometimes when it rained. It was kind of tiring to do after work or after school. However, when we were able to start giving out all the items, I truly saw what it meant to volunteer. The grill was out with food for volunteers, there were raffles and other games for the younger audience, and it really made me feel encompassed in my new community.”