Farm-to-Family coupons provide free produce at local farmers’ markets

WESTMINSTER — With harvests coming in, it's a perfect time to visit the local farmers' market for some fresh corn, tomatoes, and other seasonal vegetables.

Farm to Family coupons are a great resource available in our region to help qualified households access this fresh, nutritious produce.

This summer, Southeastern Vermont Community Action (SEVCA) had 340 coupon books worth $30 each to distribute to low-income households to help meet their food needs.

The agency has coupon booklets for seniors (age 60 and older); interested households are urged to contact SEVCA at (800) 464-9951 as soon as possible to apply.

Coupons must be redeemed by Oct. 31.

SEVCA's Family Services staff can also help area residents apply for 3SquaresVT benefits (food stamps), which are accepted at more than 40 farmers' markets across the state.

As an added benefit, by using an EBT card at a participating farmers' market, households may receive up to $10 in “Crop Cash” coupons to be used at the market ($1 in “Crop Cash” for every $1 in 3SquaresVT benefit redeemed).

Participating farmers' markets have an EBT booth to assist shoppers with 3SquaresVT; shoppers need to check with the market manager at this booth to ensure “Crop Cash” is available.

For a list of participating stores and markets, visit www.vermontfoodhelp.com.

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