Wilmington Farmers Market Announces Increased Matching Funds For SNAP Beneficiaries

Below is a press release from the Wilmington Farmers Market:

WILMINGTON, MA – The Wilmington Farmers Market is excited to announce an enhanced initiative aimed at making fresh, locally grown produce more accessible to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) beneficiaries. SNAP recipients now have the opportunity to stretch their dollars further with a dollar-for-dollar match of up to $30 per week when shopping at the Wilmington Farmers Market.

The initiative, made possible through grant funding awarded to the Wilmington Farmers Market by Winchester Hospital’s Community Benefits program, seeks to address the critical issue of food insecurity while supporting local farmers and vendors. By matching SNAP benefits with an equivalent amount in market cash, this program ensures that families and individuals facing financial constraints can enjoy the abundance of fresh and nutritious options available at the market.

“Everyone deserves access to fresh, healthy food, regardless of their financial circumstances,” said Christine Canevari, President of the Board for the Wilmington Farmers Market. “We are proud to support this initiative that not only benefits SNAP beneficiaries but also strengthens our local agricultural economy by supporting our hard working farmers.”

Here’s how the program works:

SNAP beneficiaries visit the Wilmington Farmers Market information booth.

They swipe their SNAP Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card to receive market cash.

For every dollar spent using SNAP benefits, an equal amount in market cash (up to $30 per week) will be provided for use at the market through the end of the season.

Market cash can be spent on a wide range of products, including fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, baked goods, and more.

This initiative not only enhances access to nutritious foods but also encourages residents to connect with local farmers, artisans, and food producers. It promotes community engagement while fostering a stronger sense of unity among Wilmington’s diverse population.

“We believe that this program will not only address food insecurity but also promote a healthier lifestyle for individuals and families in our community,” added Canevari. “It’s a win-win situation for everyone involved.”

The Wilmington Farmers Market takes place every Sunday from 10AM to 1PM at the Swain Green across from the  Town Common, 140 Middlesex Avenue. The program is set to run throughout the market season, until October 1st, ensuring sustained support for SNAP beneficiaries and local vendors.

For more information about the Wilmington Farmers Market and the SNAP benefits matching program, please visit www.wilmingtonfarmersmarket.com or contact wilmingtonfarmersmarket1@gmail.com.

About Wilmington Farmers Market

The Wilmington Farmers Market is a vibrant community gathering that connects local farmers and producers with residents, offering a diverse array of fresh, seasonal produce and artisanal goods. With a commitment to fostering a sustainable local food system, the market provides a platform for farmers to showcase their products while promoting healthy eating habits and community engagement.