Superhero Walk Raises Funds for Nutrition Incentives

Batman, Wonder Woman, and Veggie Girl? You might see all of these characters at the Superhero Walk this Saturday at Hurkamp Park.

The Farmers Market.co seeks to improve access and affordability of 
fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables for
 SNAP (formerly Food Stamp) customers at farmers markets in Fredericksburg, King George, and Spotsylvania. They need Superheroes like these to help continue their programs.

Each week, the Nutrition Incentive Program 
matches the first $10 of SNAP purchases to 
increase the buying power of low-income families. The Nutrition Incentive Program benefits both the consumers and farmers. The matching incentives help residents purchase more local fresh fruits and vegetables than they could with just their federal benefits.

In 2012, $20,542 in SNAP benefits were matched by $13,782 in nutrition incentives, which represents an over 60% growth from 2011. The program had significant impact on the revenues of the more than 65 local producers who sell at The Farmers Market.co markets, promoting a growing and sustainable regional food system.

More funds for the matching program are needed. According to the Virginia Department of Social Services, as of December 2012, there were 19,170 persons receiving SNAP benefits in the three localities with a total monthly issuance of $2.5 million. By attracting federal benefit dollars to be spent at Farmers Markets, these funds remain in the local economy. As many families still suffer the effects of unemployment and underemployment, the need continues.

How can you help? Superheroes like you can strut, fly, and even walk your way to providing fresh food access to hungry families!

1. Register to walk on Facebook. Visit Fredericksburg, VA Farmers Market>Events>Superhero Walk
2. Recruit some friends! It’s no fun to walk alone! Bring a buddy or get a team of co-workers together. Corporate sponsorships and donations welcome!
3. Fill up a pledge form. Friends, neighbors, co-workers, anyone can donate! We appreciate a minimum donation of $25 per walker.
4. Come to Hurkamp Park on SATURDAY, APRIL 27, 2013 Registration 9-10am, Walk begins 10am, don’t be late! (rain date 5/11/13)
5. Walk the walk with your friends, family, and neighbors! Strut your stuff on the one mile walk! Superheroes get hungry, so bring a picnic or shop the market for some snacks and enjoy special events and entertainment at Hurkamp Park.

Everyone is welcome so grab your best bed sheet cape and put on your helmet! Let’s all be market superheroes!