Aurora Kids Receive Vouchers For Free Fresh Fruits, Vegetables

AURORA, IL — Aurora's youngest generation is learning to shop for fresh fruits and vegetables at the Aurora Farmers Market. Through a collaborative program between the market and Fresh First Program, local children received $20 vouchers to purchase produce from a local farmer.

Youth, ranging from toddlers to teens, lined up on June 14 to take their pick of the crop. Food available ranged from locally grown apples and peaches to carrots and cucumbers.

The program is sponsored by Ascension Mercy Medical Center, located in Aurora, which provides the Fresh First Program with $5,000 in vouchers. Fresh First's goal is twofold: to provide healthy food options for local children and to support the local farming community with a source of income.

Vouchers can be used on specific dates throughout the summer at the Aurora Farmers Market. In order for kids to receive the vouchers, a parent or guardian has to be with them, city officials said.

The next Fresh First date will be announced "soon" on the city's distribution list and social media, according to Clayton Muhammad, chief communications officer. Parents must register to receive a voucher from the limited supply at each event.