Southern Illinois residents using food assistance will be able to get more for their money at area farmer’s markets.
Foodworks is continuing the program, which allows customers using SNAP at farmer’s markets to purchase more by providing them with matching coupons, which can be used to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as plant starts for edible food. Foodworks’ Libby Ervin said the program benefits recipients and the community.
“It’s nice, it allows people that need it to extend their buying purchase, it gives them access to fresh and kind of healthy foods but it’s also a very nice addition for our vendors too, that have produce and fruit,” Ervin said. “Because it’s putting extra dollars back in their pocket, which means extra dollars circulating back in the community.”
The program is available at the Benton Farmers Market, the Humpday Farmers Market and the West Frankfort Farmers Market.