Expanded Options for Bar Harbor Farmers' Market Shoppers
For immediate release, please
Date: June 17, 2023
Program Contact: Lucie Nolden, lucie.nolden@healthyacadia.org 207-412-3071
Media Contact: Tracey Carlson, tracey@healthyacadia.org 207-667-7171
Expanded Options for Bar Harbor Farmers' Market Shoppers
BAR HARBOR, Maine -- Shoppers who receive SNAP benefits now have a wider array of choices when it comes to supporting local farmers, thanks to the recent launch of a SNAP info booth at the Bar Harbor Eden Farmers' Market. This initiative reflects a growing trend across the state, with an increasing number of markets and farm stands accepting SNAP.
Under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), previously known as "food stamps," recipients receive monthly food supplement benefits that can be utilized through their EBT (electronic benefit transfer) card, also referred to as the Pine Tree Card in Maine. In addition to grocery stores, SNAP beneficiaries can now spend their benefits at farm stands and farmers' markets, expanding access to nutritious fresh foods for recipients and their families.
Patrons who use SNAP benefits at farmers' markets, including the Eden market in Bar Harbor, can benefit from an exciting incentive. For every $2 of SNAP benefits spent, shoppers are eligible to receive $1 back in "Maine Harvest Bucks," enabling them to purchase more fruits and vegetables.
To participate in the Bar Harbor Farmers' Market using SNAP benefits, shoppers are encouraged to visit the info booth to acquire a shopping sheet before completing their purchases. The info booth also serves as the enrollment hub for Eden's market-wide Senior FarmShare program. Eligible seniors can register to receive $50 worth of vouchers, redeemable for fruits and vegetables at any vendor's stall within the market. Seniors may also appoint a proxy shopper if needed.
Shoppers who receive WIC can use their eWIC benefits at several stalls, while Bumper Crop vouchers, distributed as part of the Maine Federation of Farmers' Markets' workplace wellness program, can also be redeemed throughout the market.
To support and ensure the sustainability of this initiative, individuals are encouraged to volunteer at the info booth on Sunday mornings at the Eden market. Those interested can contact Lucie at lucie.nolden@healthyacadia.org for more details. For additional information on local farmers' markets and farm stands that accept SNAP and WIC, please visit healthyacadia.org/hffa-fm.
Healthy Acadia is a 501c3 nonprofit community health organization that works to build vibrant communities and make it easier for all people to lead healthy lives throughout Washington and Hancock counties, Maine. For more information about Healthy Acadia’s efforts to address food insecurity, and other health initiatives, visit www.healthyacadia.org.