LINCOLN, NE – One sign of springtime in Nebraska is the return of local farmers markets, and families participating in SNAP can double their spending power at seven participating markets across the state.
Margaret Milligan – program coordinator with Buy Fresh Buy Local Nebraska – said the aim of the Double Up Food Bucks program is to connect struggling families with fresh, nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables.
“They’re more expensive than processed foods and ready-to-eat foods,” said Milligan. “So this program was really started to help those folks to get more nutritious foods into their kitchens.”
Families that spend up to $20 using their Electronic Benefits Transfer cards can receive an additional $20 per day that can be used to purchase fresh produce, milk, eggs, honey, meat and other locally produced foods.
Milligan said markets are a great place to introduce kids to where their food comes from, and farmers are happy to answer questions.
Markets also tend to be a hub for community gatherings. Many offer cooking classes, live music and other family-friendly activities.
“Kids days at farmers markets, where the local fire truck is brought in, and the kids can tour it or talk to the firefighters,” said Milligan. “There’s public libraries that have story time at farmers markets.”
Money spent at local markets tends to stay in Nebraska, unlike grocery chains. Milligan said every dollar spent at farmers markets generates three dollars in economic activity.
Farmers also benefit from an influx of new customers, and get a fair price for their goods. Produce harvested that morning or the previous day also packs a lot more vitamins and minerals, and taste, than goods shipped cross country.
“We like to think of it as a win for both participants and those growing the food,” said Milligan. And she says it’s a win for the community where people are coming to shop.
Since the program started in 2017, more than 4,000 families have participated, adding more than $300,000 to local economies. To find a participating market, visit doubleupnebraska.org.
