Connecticut Agriculture Commissioner Brian Hurlburt said Wednesday that the state’s Farmers Market Nutrition Program will begin on Saturday, June 1, a month earlier than usual, and will run through Nov. 30, 2024.
Program participants include people enrolled in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, seniors age 60 and older, and people with disabilities who meet income and housing guidelines.
Through the program, participants can visit certified farmers markets and produce stands to redeem local Connecticut Grown (CT Grown) produce, including fresh, unprocessed fruits, vegetables and eggs. Seniors can also use the funds to purchase honey. Eligible WIC participants will receive $60 per person, and seniors will receive $50 per person.
“The outdoor farmers market season is underway with a variety of CT Grown products available for sale, and many more will be available as various crops get ready for harvest. By launching the program on June 1, participants will have access to a wider range of products, including those available earlier in the season such as strawberries,” Hurlburt said in a statement. “The Farmers Market Nutrition Program is critical for people facing food insecurity, expanding their buying power so they can access healthy foods and providing Connecticut farmers with additional market access to sell their products and continue to grow their businesses.”
According to the Connecticut Department of Agriculture, there are currently more than 200 certified farms and about 100 authorized redemption locations in the state, with more expected to join throughout the season.
