The Columbia Falls Community Market is under the proverbial gun to raise about $1 million by Sept. 7 in order to purchase its current location.

Since 2024, the Columbia Falls Community Market has operated on land adjacent to St. Richard Catholic Church leased from the Boys and Girls Club under an agreement that runs through December 2030. 

“The Boys and Girls Club has been an extraordinary partner to the Market — generous, supportive, and deeply invested in its success,” the market noted in a release. “Recently, the Boys and Girls Club relisted the property for sale at $1.1 million and has now received a full offer at that price. Under the market’s existing lease agreement, the community market has a right of refusal, giving us the opportunity to purchase the property ourselves. Our deadline to exercise that opportunity is Sept. 7.”

So the market is hoping to raise at least some of that amount by the deadline and if it doesn’t, the proceeds will still help the nonprofit, it noted.

If the market is unable to purchase the property, the new ownership has agreed to provide either a secured lease or a meaningful investment in the market before the property is transferred.

The market has had a significant economic impact on Columbia Falls. 

So far this year 108 vendors have participated in the market, collectively earning more than $502,000.

In addition, it has featured 10 partners, 14 sponsors, 16 local nonprofits, 13 musical performers, three educational booths and 17 donors/grant givers. As well as 181 local businesses, organizations, nonprofits, performers and community partners during the first 14 weeks this season

All told, it’s drawn 24,926 people so far this year, averaging more than 593 people per hour. In addition, its recycling program has recycled 12,160 pounds since beginning last year and has generated $3,750 in donations to local nonprofits.

People can give to the market through accounts at Freedom Bank, Stockman Bank and Park Side Credit Union.