Ellington Farmers Market Expands Support for Low-Income Shoppers

Ellington Farmers Market Expands Support for Low-Income Shoppers with Voucher Matching Programs

Ellington, June 5, 2024 – The Ellington Farmers Market is enhancing its commitment to community health by matching Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) vouchers at face value throughout the outdoor market season. This initiative aims to make fresh, local produce and foods more accessible to low-income seniors, WIC recipients, and SNAP beneficiaries.

Eligible low-income seniors can obtain FMNP cards, each valued at $50, by contacting their local senior or human services offices. WIC recipients who can receive $60 per child aged five years or under should contact their local WIC offices to obtain an app for the program.

With the app, WIC recipients can purchase produce and eggs directly from market vendors. Seniors may additionally purchase honey with their cards. The matching vouchers provided by the Ellington Farmers Market can be used to buy any food item sold at the market, broadening the range of nutritious options available to participants.

Before shopping, customers should visit the central Market Booth at the Ellington Farmers Market to receive additional matching vouchers. Courtesy of the market, these vouchers can be used to purchase any food available, effectively doubling the value of the FMNP vouchers.

The Ellington Farmers Market also doubles SNAP benefits up to $30 per week per EBT card. SNAP beneficiaries can bring their EBT cards to the Market Booth to obtain vouchers, allowing them to shop for a variety of nutritious foods.

"The goal of these programs is to ensure that everyone in our community has access to nutritious, fresh food," said Market Manager Dianne Trueb. "By matching FMNP and doubling SNAP benefits, we are helping our low-income seniors, WIC families, and SNAP recipients stretch their dollars further and enjoy a wider variety of healthy foods."

Last year, the market distributed over $30,000 through these programs. With increased distribution amounts per individual this year, the market forecasts doubling that amount in 2024, reflecting a significant boost in community support.

The Ellington Farmers Market, a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation, is held every Saturday from 9 AM to noon through October, rain or shine, at their new location, Market Park, 72 Maple St. Ellington. The market is committed to building a healthy community by supporting local farmers and providing access to fresh, nutritious food.

By matching FMNP vouchers and doubling SNAP benefits, the Ellington Farmers Market is helping to create a healthier, more inclusive community. This initiative reflects the market's dedication to supporting its residents and promoting local agriculture.