The Cedar Farmers Market is one of several local markets participating in a nutritional coupon program linking people who need some help, with fresh and local produce. (File Photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By Alex Rawnsley

FRESH AND LOCAL

Nutritional coupon program expands at Nanaimo farmers markets

Jun 5, 2022 | 3:58 PM

NANAIMO — A vital program connecting low-income families and individuals with fresh, local food is growing.

Funded by the provincial government, through the BC Farmers’ Markets organization, coupons are given to families who apply for them to purchase fresh fruit, vegetables, meats, fish and other non-processed goods at a participating market.

Kate Poirier, executive director for the Cedar Farmers Market Agriculture Society, told NanaimoNewsNOW the coupons are essential in getting people what they need for themselves and their family.

“The coupons that participants receive, they work just like gift certificates. They can only be used for fresh goods, nothing processed, but they can come and shop from any of the farmers, buy anything they like week by week for their families.”

Available funding from the province has grown this year, a total of around $12 million available B.C. wide. The funding is expected to help over 8,800 households.

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Vendors are reimbursed dollar for dollar at the end of a market week by Poirier through funds she has from the provincial pool.

Those participating in the program can spend their coupons locally at both the Cedar market, the midweek Island Roots market on Bowen Rd., as well as markets on Gabriola Island, Errington and in Qualicum Beach.

A full list of participating markets is available here.

“They can also buy seedling plants, like veggie seedlings so they can start their own gardens at home,” Poirier added. “It’s really to provide access to the most nutritious, local food possible.”

Demand for fresh, local produce has skyrocketed in recent years as global supply chains quivered during the pandemic.

Poirier said people want to know more about where their food comes from and a market allows them to meet face to face with the person growing or making what they’re eating.

Interest and applications for the coupon program through the Cedar market has already exceeded supply.

“We already have a lot of applications coming in right now from young families. The demand right now is overwhelming, applications have only been open for about a week and there’s more demand than I think I can help with at this point.”

Space is still available for seniors to participate, with registration possible through the Cedar market website.

Poirier is hoping to create some additional supply and help more people with some fundraising efforts, of which Island Savings has committed to matching up to $1,000.

As part of the coupon program, a variety of cooking demonstrations and other nutritional educational programs will be offered at the Cedar market this summer.

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