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The BC Farmers' Market Nutrition Coupon Program applies to a pair of mid-Island area markets, allowing screened participants discounted access to a range of healthy, fresh products. (Image Credit: File photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)
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Farmers’ market coupon program returns

Jun 14, 2026 | 5:27 AM

NANAIMO — A highly popular program is again offering discounted farmers’ market food items around the province.

The Ministry of Health funded BC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Coupon Program covers items such as vegetables, meat, fish, eggs and dairy products for families, pregnant women and low income seniors in 95 communities.

Already at capacity for this year, the program allows enrolled households to receive up to $27 per week in coupons for upwards of four months.

Locally, Nanaimo’s Island Roots Bowen Road Market and the Gabriola Farmer’s Market are included in the coupon initiative.

Community partners are responsible for issuing the coupons across the province in partnership with the BC Association of Farmers’ Markets.

Last year, the the program, in existence since 2012, supported about 8,200 households through roughly 240 community partners, according to the Ministry of Health.

According to the B.C. government, nearly five million visits are made to farmers' markets in the province annually.
According to the B.C. government, nearly five million visits are made to farmers’ markets in the province annually. (Image Credit: File photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

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