For the second year in a row, the Community Servings farmers market is this year providing access to fresh produce for low-income families who receive federal food subsidies.
The farmers market—which happens every Wednesday from 4 to 7 p.m. at Community Servings’ parking lot at 18 Marbury Terrace—is accepting Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. SNAP benefits used to be known as food stamps.
SNAP benefits users also get an additional discount when they shop at the Community Servings market. It is one of over 25 markets throughout the city where the first $10 of produce purchased with SNAP benefits is matched by the city’s “Bounty Bucks” program.
“It is important that we make healthy eating options available to everyone, including low-income families who rely on SNAP benefits,” Gov. Deval Patrick said in a statement emailed to the Gazette. “This program is a great opportunity to support the health of our residents while boosting local farms and products here in Massachusetts.”
The state this year awarded $52,981 in grants to support farmers markets that accept SNAP benefits, including $1,000 for the Community Servings market.
Vendors at the market include Silverbrook Farm, Millbrook Farm and Stillman’s Farm, as well as nut vendor Fastachia and three JP-based food vendor: Nelia Pasta, candy maker Caramel Eyes, and the Blue Frog Bakery.