Farmers’ market program delivers another bountiful harvest

People in British Columbia will continue to have improved access to nutritious, locally grown foods through the B.C. Farmers’ Market Nutrition Coupon Program. 

“As the weather warms up and more people take advantage of British Columbia’s amazing farmers’ markets, we are helping people and families on lower incomes access fresh and nutritious foods grown in their communities,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health. “The Farmers’ Market Nutrition Coupon Program promotes healthy eating and gives people an opportunity to connect with and support local farmers and producers.”

The B.C. Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program is operating in more than 90 communities throughout the province, reaching families, seniors and pregnant people from more than 8,500 households.

“We all want people to be able to access nutritious, healthy food in their communities,” said Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction. “Our funding will help more people, including seniors and families, put fresh food on the table, while also investing in local agriculture.”

Delivered by the B.C. Association of Farmers’ Markets (BCAFM), the B.C. Farmers’ Market Nutrition Coupon 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. With funding from the Province, the program provides coupons to community partners supporting people and families with lower incomes. Coupons can be used to buy fresh, nutritious and locally grown food at more than 100 participating B.C. farmers’ markets.