REALLY, REALLY, FREE MARKET

COOKEVILLE, TN — The Community Action Coalition of Cookeville will host a Really, Really Free Market (RRFM) on Sunday, June 7 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on the grassy area behind Wonderfill Refillery. A Really, Really Free Market is a community gathering centered around mutual aid, sharing, and connection. Community members are invited to bring usable items, skills, ideas, music, food, or talents to give away freely and to take what they need at no cost. Unlike traditional markets, no money, sales, or bartering are involved. The event is rooted in the gift economy, encouraging neighbors to support one another directly and build stronger community relationships outside of commercial systems. “As people continue to face uncertainty and challenge in their daily lives, events like this help remind us that community care and mutual support matter,” organizers said. “This is about more than giving things away: it’s about creating a space where neighbors can connect, share resources, and meet each other’s needs together.” Organizers encourage attendees to bring blankets, tarps, tables, or canopies if needed. Participants are also asked to remain for the duration of the event rather than simply dropping items off, with the goal of fostering a welcoming and community-centered atmosphere. The Community Action Coalition asks that:

• 1. No goods be sold or bartered
• 2. Businesses refrain from distributing promotional materials
• 3. All shared items be clean, usable, and freely given

Community members can also support the event by:

• 1. Volunteering for setup and cleanup
• 2. Helping spread the word through local organizations and social media
• 3. Sharing the event with friends, neighbors, and community groups

Anyone interested in volunteering or joining the mailing list can contact the Community Action Coalition of Cookeville at [email protected].