Market Programs
Improving Food Access
Project GROWS’ mission is to grow a healthy community by connecting all people to nutritious food. We operate several farmers markets as part of our food access programming. Farmers markets improve food security, individual and family health, and the overall local food economy by connecting local producers to the community and the community to nourishing foods.
Food Access Programs
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
SNAP, formerly known as food stamps, is a USDA program that provides assistance to low-income families and individuals to purchase food. Project GROWS accepts and DOUBLES SNAP benefits at all of our farmers market Locations. View this SNAP Resource Guide to learn more about using SNAP-EBT benefits at your local farmer’s market.
Virginia Fresh Match
Thanks to funding and support from Virginia Fresh Match, Project GROWS markets DOUBLE SNAP-EBT benefits! Virginia Fresh Match helps people bring home more healthy, affordable fruits and vegetables and supports local farmers by providing a 1:1 match on SNAP-EBT dollars at participating farmers markets. Learn more about how SNAP-Match works at participating farmers markets.
Farmers Market Nutrition Programs
The WIC and Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) provides vouchers to qualifying low-income seniors and families participating in the WIC program. Vouchers may be used exclusively for the purchase of fresh fruits and vegetables with participating farmers at markets and roadside stands. Learn more about WIC FMNP and Senior FMNP.
Buy One, Give One: Fresh Food Donation Program
Our Buy One Give One Fresh Food Donation Program gives customers the opportunity to give back to their community while supporting their local farmers. At our market locations you can purchase extra food from our vendors and drop it off in our food donation bin. At the end of the market day we take donated food to local pantries and shelters in the community.
“Having access to a farmer’s market where I can use my EBT card and get it matched has had a major impact on my health. What you do here is HUGE. Thank you for being a part of my health and thank you for all that you do.” -Market Customer