Northbrook Farmers Market Gives Free Money to SNAP Recipients

Northbrook Farmers Market again offers its matching grant program to area families enrolled in the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (formerly food stamps).

The program helps turn the freshest food in town into the best bargain in town for those on tight budgets, meaning SNAP customers who visit the farmers market can double their grocery dollars to make healthy meals for their family.

“Helping provide farm fresh food to those who might not otherwise be able to afford it is one of the core missions of the market,” said Dale Duda, Manager, Northbrook Farmers Market.

"It has been our conviction since early on that those with fewer resources be able to enjoy the pleasure and benefits of shopping at our market just like the rest of us."

To date, the market has given away more than $75,000 in matching funds

When a SNAP client withdraws funds from their own account, Northbrook Farmers Market matches that amount with an equal amount of free money. Most SNAP customers who visit the farmers market are elderly immigrants, working parents who do not make enough to support their family, and disabled persons.

Funding for the program comes from grants and corporate donations to the Northbrook Farmers Market.

To find out more about the program, visit www.northbrookfarmersmarket.org. In addition, the website hosts a link the Illinois Department of Human Services where one can apply for SNAP benefits.

About Northbrook Farmers Market: Much More Than a Market

The market is open 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesdays, through Oct. 9, in the parking lot at Cherry Lane and Meadow Road, downtown Northbrook. It is handicapped accessible with plenty of close-by free parking.

“Our goal is to educate residents on the benefits of buying locally, eating healthy, and living green, as well as supporting local farming families and entrepreneurs,” said Dale Duda, Market Manager of Northbrook Farmers Market.

The Northbrook Farmers Market Association's mission is to provide local (defined as within a 150-mile radius) farmers, producers, and food artisans an economic outlet, and to serve the community by making available for purchase fresh, high-quality produce and other locally produced goods for the benefit of all.

Operated by Northbrook Farmers Market Association, it is a registered 501c3 charitable organization operated by volunteers in the community.

The market partners with local groups and institutions to do good for the community. A few examples include collection of food and dry goods for the local pantry, providing community service hours for young people in the police social services program, and raising money and awareness for local charities through fun events.

In addition, Northbrook Farmers Market volunteers educate youngsters about nutrition and where their food comes from, promote environmental stewardship, and make it feasible for low-income neighbors to shop for the freshest produce through its SNAP (formerly food stamps) double-value program.

For more information about the market, visit www.NorthbrookFarmersMarket.org.

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