Late summer and fall are the most bountiful seasons at our Wisconsin farmers markets. However, individuals using the FoodShare program may feel left out from visiting these markets for fresh, local food. Many people are surprised to learn that most farmers markets accept FoodShare benefits from their Quest cards. Spending your FoodShare benefits at your local farmers market lets you directly support people in your community. And with farmers markets, you know the people in your community that you are supporting directly.
Here are some tips for using FoodShare benefits at farmers markets:
Locate the Information Stand at your market.
The attendant will swipe your Quest card and give you vouchers or tokens – sometimes $2 in vouchers for every $1 in FoodShare dollars.
Locate stands with signs that say “EBT accepted here.”
Exchange tokens or vouchers for fresh produce.
You can find a farmers market anywhere in Wisconsin here: WI Farmers Market Association - Find a farmers market (wifarmersmarkets.org)
For general information about using FoodShare at farmers markets, as well as links to flyers and infographics, visit: https://healthyliving.extension.wisc.edu/articles/how-to-shop-with-snap-benefits-at-wisconsins-farmers-markets/
In addition, the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) is available to anyone 60 or older or who lives with someone 60 or older. Native Americans can join at 55 or older. To join, individuals must also meet low-income rules and live in a county that is part of Senior FMNP. The Senior FMNP is available from June 1 through October 31.
More information about this program and where to join is available here: WIC: Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program | Wisconsin Department of Health Services
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