Families, pregnant people and seniors living on a lower income will continue to have access to locally grown foods through the B.C. Farmers’ Market Nutrition Coupon Program in Cranbrook and Kimberley.
Delivered by the B.C. Association of Farmers’ Markets, the program is a healthy-eating initiative that strengthens local food systems throughout the province by providing an additional source of income for B.C. farmers during the market season.
“Access to healthy food is one of the foundations of good health, and farmers’ markets are wonderful places where people can connect with local growers, support local businesses and enjoy the harvest of the season,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health.
Coupons can be spent at participating farmers’ markets, including Cranbrook Farmers’ Market and Kimberley Farmers Market.
You can use coupons to purchase vegetables, fruits, eggs, dairy, herbs, plants, honey, meat and fish.
“The program is helping more people access and enjoy fresh, nutritious food grown by B.C. farmers, while strengthening local food security and supporting producers and small businesses,” said Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture and Food.
The Province states it has committed $4.25 million to the program.
“This funding helps more people, including seniors and families, put fresh food on the table, while also investing in local agriculture,” said Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction.
Households enrolled in the program can receive up to $27 per week in coupons for up to 16 weeks.
“This is a program that for 15 years has continued to inspire and unite people and communities around healthy food, while sustaining our local food systems for future generations,” said Heather O’Hara, executive director, BC Association of Farmers’ Markets.
The initiative operates in approximately 100 communities throughout the province, and approximately 8,200 households.
To learn more about the B.C. Farmers’ Market Nutrition Coupon Program click here.
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