WSU Extension received a Farmers Market SNAP Support Grant (FMSSG) for the “Farmers Market Flash” pilot project. The focus of Farmers Market Flash was to engage limited-resource seniors and families with children to become frequent shoppers at their local farmers market. Seniors and families with children receiving assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are often underrepresented in farmers markets–Our goal was to change that and promote a farmers market that is inclusive for everyone, regardless of income. The grant funding supported technical assistance for farmers markets to better facilitate Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) transactions, as well as promote SNAP participation at these locations through the implementation of community-focused activities, both on- and off-site.
Many farmers markets already serve as facilitators of healthy habits and hubs for community engagement. Our goal was to spread the word about Skagit County farmers markets abundant with affordable fresh fruits and vegetables, and the benefits of shopping there. The foundation of the Farmers Market Flash project was based upon the four pillars of Education, Outreach, Promotion, and Community Engagement;
EducationEducate farmers, vendors, and consumers
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OutreachIncrease awareness of the opportunity to utilize SNAP benefits at the market
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PromotionPromote the opportunity to utilize SNAP benefits at the market
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Community EngagementMobilize and engage community in market activities
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Double Up Bucks makes fresh local food more affordable for low income individuals residing in Skagit County while enhancing our local economy and supporting our local farmers. SNAP benefits go twice as far at the farmers market thanks to the Double Up Bucks program. Customers who pay with their Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card can double their dollars at the farmers market. That means you’ll get up to $4 worth of fresh, local food for every $2 you spend with your EBT card.
20$ spent with EBT= $40 for fruits and vegetables! For more information about Double Up Bucks EBT incentive program in Skagit County, visit the SVFMC Double Up Bucks page. |
This material was based upon work that was supported by the Food and Nutrition Services, U.S. Department of Agriculture, under award number FMSSG-1511944071
Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed on this website are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.