SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) is a federal assistance program designed to provide nutritional support to low-income individuals and families. We believe it is important to push for the acceptance of SNAP at farmers markets and expand the number of markets because access to fresh, locally grown produce should be accessible to all. This idea matches the goal of the SNAP program and has been adopted by a number of markets across Virginia.
Unlike typical grocery stores, farmers markets provide a space where local farmers, artisans, and consumers interact directly, fostering a sense of community, trust, and shared purpose. The produce is higher quality and locally grown, making it ideal for a healthy lifestyle. Expanding SNAP acceptance at markets supports food security, enhances accessibility to healthir foods, and contributes to the fight against the poverty-obesity cycle by empowering lower-income individuals to make nutritious food choices.
These areas are examples of counties that would be good candidates for SNAP accepting markets