Farmers Market Accepting EBT/SNAP Benefits

Officially halfway through the 2011 summer season, the Board of Directors of the Medford Farmers Market is excited to announce new support behind its efforts to increase access to the Market. The Market recently received a generous grant from the Massachusetts Department of Agriculture (MDAR) and the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) that has allowed it to begin a more aggressive outreach campaign focused on encouraging EBT/SNAP users to embrace the benefits of their local farmers market. The grant has enabled the all-volunteer Board to hire a Coordinator for the project, dedicated to spreading the word about the Market’s unprecedented incentive program for SNAP recipients through active contact with various community organizations.

The MDAR and DTA grant is also funding The Medford Farmers Market Bucks Program which allows shoppers to swipe any amount on their EBT/SNAP card and receive a bonus of $10 in “Market Bucks” to be used during that visit. By making the Market more affordable, this program not only increases the purchasing power of SNAP recipients, but most importantly provides all residents with an opportunity to show their support for local businesses and take steps toward a healthier lifestyle.

At a time when many markets are relaxing their initial outreach efforts, the Medford Farmers Market is especially grateful to MDAR and DTA for making this new opportunity available to the community. Please show your support by spreading the word about this program! If you or your organization would like more information on the Medford Farmers Market Bucks Program, or would like to participate in promoting its use, please contact Robyn Lightner at medfordfarmersmarket@gmail.com.

The Medford Farmers Market is held every Thursday through Oct. 13 from 3-7 pm in the Whole Foods Market parking lot at 2151 Mystic Valley Parkway (Rt. 16).

– Submitted by Robyn Lightner, EBT/SNAP Outreach, Medford Farmers Market