WESTMINSTER — Mid to late summer is a perfect time to visit area farmers' markets for some fresh, seasonal vegetables, and “Farm to Family” Coupons are a great resource to help qualified households access this nutritious produce for free.
In a news release, Southeast Vermont Community Action said it has 164 coupon books worth $30 each to distribute to low-income households, about 60 percent of which are designated for seniors (age 60 and up).
At the start of the summer, the community action agency wasn't certain the state would make the coupon books available this year. Although it eventually received an allocation, there was a significant reduction in the number of coupon books provided - about 32 percent fewer than last year.
The agency is distributing coupon books to eligible households on a first-come, first-served basis. To qualify, a household's income must be no more than 185 percent of the Federal Poverty Level - currently $2,457 per month for a family of two, or $3,739 per month for a family of four.
Interested households should phone SEVCA at 800-464-9951 to find out if they qualify. Walk-ins cannot be accommodated.
There are a limited number of coupon books available, so interested families and individuals are urged to contact SEVCA as soon as possible to apply for a coupon book. Coupons must be redeemed by Oct. 31.
SEVCA's Family Services staff can also help area residents apply for 3SquaresVT benefits (i.e. food stamps), which are accepted at more than 40 farmers' markets across the state.
As an added benefit, by using an EBT card at a participating farmers' market, households may receive up to $10 in “Crop Cash” coupons to be used at the market ($1 in “Crop Cash” for every $1 in 3SquaresVT benefit redeemed).
Participating farmers' markets have an EBT booth to assist shoppers with 3SquaresVT; shoppers need to check with the market manager at this booth to ensure “Crop Cash” is available. For a list of participating markets, visit www.vermontfoodhelp.com.