Anna Lappe, an advocate for sustainable food, once proposed that “Every time you spend money, you’re casting a vote for the kind of world you want.” Think about this for one moment, and how impacting this is. When Lappe asserts that where our money is being spent determines the world around us, I think she’s validated in her point. At the end of the day where your money goes is really how you’re telling the market you’d like to shop. Giving more money to big corporations or chains, shows there is more demand for a chain market, as opposed to a local one.

There are many reasons to shop at the supermarkets to purchase things. I’d be lying if I said otherwise. It’s your one-stop-shop. Groceries, clothes, shoes, housewares, and so much more are at your fingertips. You don’t have to venture to four or more stores to get what’s on the list, you simply just go to one. Also, it’s no secret, that mass production, by any company, can make things much more affordable. Without a doubt corporate spending seems easier, and often cheaper.

However, I encourage you to think about where that money you’re spending ends up. According to TIME magazine “The New Economics Foundation. . . compared what happens when people buy produce at a supermarket vs. a local farmer’s market or community supported agriculture (CSA) program and found that twice the money stayed in the community when folks bought locally.” Not only does buying locally stimulate the local economy, but also builds unique jobs unlike corporate stores. Local owners have more liberty to cater to the needs of an employee, and find odd-jobs to fit those who struggle to find work otherwise.

Furthermore, think about what’s going into your body. Have you wondered why produce looks so big at farmer’s markets? All markets have rules for each type of vendor. Every vendor must’ve picked or used handcrafted material within 100 miles, sometimes only 50 miles, of city limits. For example, some of La Crosse’s Cameron Park Vendor Rules state: “Bedding plants and annual herb plants must be grown from seed by the vendor. Fresh cut flowers and ornamentals must be grown for at least the current season or wild gathered by the vendor. Baked goods must be made from scratch.” Many other markets use similar stipulations for sale items. This is to allow the freshest quality of ingredients, and freshest produce.

Buying locally doesn’t just mean going to a farmer’s market either. This can be shopping at a local boutique, eating at a local restaurant as opposed to a chain, and attending local craft shows. I find it fascinating to explore different places to eat, and love to learn about the owner’s stories. Going to events to learn about trades and produce is quite interesting also. Overall, local spending generates jobs, grows the community’s economy, generally is healthier, and can be a fun opportunity to educate yourself. Next time you’re looking to spend some money, try something new. Think twice about what vote you’re casting- buy local, eat local, and go local.