Farmers markets partner in expanded WIC nutrition program

August 9, 2024 Brooklyn Eagle Staff

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STATEWIDE — SEVERAL FARMERS’ MARKETS THROUGHOUT BROOKLYN are participating in a NY State program that doubles the WIC food benefits for families in need, particularly for new mothers. Gov. Kathy Hochul announced on Friday, Aug. 9, as part of during National Farmers’ Market Week, that families participating in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) can receive double the benefits to spend at participating farmers’ markets, helping to supplement their food budgets and purchase healthy, local products. Eligible individuals can visit their local WIC clinic to receive up to $50 in Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) coupons this season. This program both helps expand access to families nutritional goals and boosts New York farmers. While the program traditionally provides a $25 coupon booklet for WIC-eligible participants, the state has expanded those benefits to $50 per participant this season, through a waiver requested by AGM and approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Coupon booklets are available at participating local WIC clinics on a first come, first served basis. Coupons must be used by Nov. 30.

The participating Farmers’ Markets include the locations at Borough Hall, Fort Greene (Washington Park/DeKalb), Carroll Gardens, Grand Army Plaza and several in Sunset Park to Bay Ridge.

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