Farmers Market 2024

Jose Moreno
May 17, 2024
2 min read

05/17/2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

2024 Farmer’s Market Nutrition Program Benefits Now Arriving

An effort to improve access to fresh and healthy foods in historically underserved communities

City of Industry, California— Starting June 1st, eligible WIC families—residing in the Los Angeles and Orange counties may once again visit WIC-certified farmer’s market locations to collect and begin shopping with their new Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) benefits while supplies last.

Eligible families will receive a booklet that includes three $10 vouchers, totaling $30, for shopping for fresh and locally grown produce. However, to ensure WIC can offer this support to as many families as possible, the FMNP benefits will be limited to one booklet per family per year.

This initiative is funded by the United States Department of Agriculture and serves not only to help provide healthy foods to WIC families, it is about breaking down barriers and ensuring everyone has access to the fresh and nutritious foods they deserve. The USDA notes, “The FMNP was established by Congress in 1992, to provide fresh, unprepared, locally grown fruits and vegetables to WIC participants, and to expand the awareness, use of, and sales at farmers markets.”

A 2002 study that was published in the National Library of Medicine, Neighborhood Characteristics Associated with the Location of Food Stores and Food Service Places, identified a correlation between economic means and access to healthier food options. The authors note, “Compared to the poorest neighborhoods, large numbers of supermarkets and gas stations with convenience stores are located in wealthier neighborhoods. There are 3 times fewer places to consume alcoholic beverages in the wealthiest compared to the poorest neighborhoods.” This means that the disproportionately affected families—residing in food deserts—have fewer options, must travel greater distances and often pay higher prices for fresh produce and healthy food options.

With food prices rocketing, WIC and CinnaMoms are committed to connecting Southern California families with the necessary resources to promote healthy life-altering habits through healthy food options, nutrition education, breastfeeding and community support. Reserve your Farmer’s Market Nutrition Program benefits today! https://apps.phfewic.org/q/?q=PQST20

Click here for more information: https://www.phfewic.org/en/farmers-market-program-2024/