Now that COVID-19 restrictions are being lifted the Roanoke City and Salem City farmer’s markets are looking for more ways to reach new shoppers. The farmers markets have been doubling SNAP dollars for several years, but the markets are mostly underutilized by SNAP participants (formerly food-stamps). Studies indicate that 1 in 6 Roanoke residents are food insecure. This summer, thanks to funding from Molina Complete Care, the Virginia Cooperative Extension’s (VCE) Family Nutrition Program will be offering free vouchers called “Market Bucks” to SNAP-eligible families and seniors. VCE Family Nutrition Program is excited to partner with Molina Complete Care to invite SNAP participants to the farmers markets.
VCE has mailed postcards to over 28,000 families this summer to spread the word about the Market Bucks vouchers that will be handed out to SNAP-eligible families and seniors at the Historic Roanoke, Grandin Village, West End, and Salem farmer’s markets in July and August. Market Bucks can be used just like one-dollar bills at the market on the days of the events. Families will receive $10 in Market Bucks for each child that is present on the day of the event (for up to 3 children) and seniors (65+) will receive $15 in Market Bucks. The kick-off event for Market Bucks will be held on July 31 at the Historic Roanoke market from 9am-2pm.
Historic Roanoke market manager, Eric Pendleton is excited to offer the vouchers at the market and adds, “Many new products will be available on July 31, a great day to be at the market!” Market Bucks can be used to buy meat, vegetables, fruit, eggs, wrapped baked goods, honey, herbs, jams, cheese, and food-producing plants. Market Bucks will also be given to kids or seniors that show their EBT or P-EBT card at the market manager’s info table.
“At our table, you will also find a fun scavenger hunt activity for the kids and helpful tips on how to stretch your food dollars at the market,” says Emma Todoroff, SNAP-Ed intern with VCE. The Grandin Village, West End, and Salem events will be held August 7, 17, and 28 respectively.
VCE Family Nutrition Programs and Molina Healthcare are excited to welcome SNAP participants to the markets this summer!
