WE NEED A COUPLE OF VOLUNTEERS TO HELP SET UP TABLES 4/25 11:30
MontCo Mutual Aid Free Market FAQ
What is the Mutual Aid Market?
The Mutual Aid Market is a free community exchange where neighbors share items they no longer need with neighbors who can use them. No money, no transactions, just community taking care of community.
How often are the markets and where are they held?
Markets are held once a month at different locations across Montgomery County. Check our website at cfcmontcopa.com/mutual-aid for the current schedule and to find the next market near you.
When does it run?
The market runs for two hours. You can drop off and browse at the same time, so feel free to come anytime during that window.
What do I do when I get there?
Just show up! If you brought items, look for the tables arranged by category and place your items where they fit best. Then browse, connect, and take what you need. If there are skill share clinics, music, or crafts happening, jump in.
Is the market just about swapping items? Not at all. The market is a full community gathering and an anchor point for our neighborhood during uncertain times. Alongside the item exchange, local artists and musicians will be creating and performing on site, and there will be arts and crafts to participate in. Small informal skill share clinics run throughout the market — drop into one if something interests you, or just keep browsing. There is no program to follow. Come for what you need, stay for the community, and leave knowing you are not alone in this.
Do I have to bring anything to participate?
No. You are welcome to come and take items without bringing anything. Take what you need.
Is there a limit on how much I can take?
No. Take what you need.
What kinds of items can I bring?
Bring anything new or in good condition that you would give to a friend. If you wouldn’t feel comfortable handing it directly to someone you care about, it’s not the right fit for the market.
Can I bring clothing?
Clothing is welcome as long as it is new or in good condition and can be displayed for others to browse. Whatever clothing you bring, you take back with you when you leave — no exceptions.
Can I bring food?
All food exchanges should be new, unopened, and not expired. Homemade food is welcome. Please bring a written ingredients list so community members with allergies or dietary restrictions can make informed choices.
What happens to items that don’t get taken?
Whatever you bring, you take back with you when you leave. Please do not leave items behind at the end of the market.
Is there a cost?
No. There is no buying, selling, or bartering. This is a free exchange, full stop.
What is the Resource Table?
The Resource Table is a self-serve space where community members can drop off/pick up flyers and printouts about free services, actions, and information from local orgs. You can also use the Resource Table to offer something that can’t physically come to the market. Have a skill, a service, or something too large to bring? Write it up on a piece of paper — what you’re offering and how to reach you — and leave copies for others to take.
What are Skill Share clinics?
Skill share clinics are small, informal sessions happening throughout the market where neighbors teach and learn from each other. They run alongside everything else, so the market keeps going while they do. Drop in if something catches your eye — no obligation to attend.
Get Involved
Every market is built by the gifts our neighbors bring: skills, wisdom, creativity, and care. If you’d like to lead a mini-clinic, share professional advice, teach a craft, perform, or represent a local organization offering resources and support, we’d love to include you.
Fill out our short interest form to get involved and help build the next Mutual Aid Market in your community.
Interested in hosting a market? Contact communityforchangemontcopa@gmail.com