BRATTLEBORO — The Farm to Family Program gives families in the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) nutrition program coupons for free, locally grown, fresh vegetables and fruits from participating farmers' markets around the state.
WIC participants over the age of 6 months are eligible for Farm to Family coupons, which are available on a first-come, first-served basis. There is a $60 maximum benefit per family.
Coupons will be distributed at these three events this summer:
• Thursday, June 29, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Vermont Department of Health's WIC Office, first floor, 232 Main St., Brattleboro
• Saturday, July 15, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. (weather permitting), at the Brattleboro Area Farmers' Market, Route 9, West Brattleboro.
• Friday, July 21, from 10 a.m.to 2 p.m. at the Vermont Department of Health's WIC Office in Brattleboro.
Coupons are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Supplies are limited, so call ahead for coupon availability.
Also, on Thursday, June 8, from 10 to 10:45 a.m., the Vermont Department of Health's WIC Office in Brattleboro will host a class on inviting children into the garden.
Children have a natural curiosity about gardens, and letting them participate in gardening activities also increases their interest in vegetables (and in tasting them!). Join Cindy Twombly, Public Health Nurse/Master Gardener, as she shares her secrets about engaging children with planting and play. Farm to Family coupons aren't available for this activity.
Contact the Brattleboro District Office of the Vermont Department of Health, WIC Program at 802-257-2880 or toll-free at 888-253-8805, to reserve a space.
Can't make any of these dates? Go to wichealth.org and complete a fun activity involving vegetables and fruits. Then call the WIC office to schedule picking up your Farm to Family coupons.