SNAP Benefits Can Help You Buy Fresh Food at Local Farmers Markets

Did you know that you can use SNAP benefits at many farmers markets in New York?

That means you can buy fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, eggs, and other foods while helping local farmers.

What Can You Buy With SNAP?

SNAP benefits can be used to buy many healthy foods, including:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Meat and fish
• Eggs
• Milk and cheese
• Bread and cereal
• Honey
• Seeds and plants that grow food

You cannot use SNAP to buy things like alcohol, cigarettes, pet food, vitamins, or hot prepared meals.

Some Markets Give You Extra Money to Spend

Some farmers markets take part in the FreshConnect program.

Read More: Fresh Fruits and Veggies Delivered Across the Mohawk Valley 

This program can give SNAP shoppers extra money to spend on food. In some places, your SNAP dollars may be matched, helping you bring home even more fresh food for your family.

Seniors May Get Extra Coupons

New Yorkers age 60 and older may be able to get special farmers market coupons.

People who qualify can receive five $5 coupons, worth a total of $25, which can be used to buy fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs from participating farmers.

Coupons are handed out starting July 1 on a first-come, first-served basis.

WIC Families Can Get Coupons Too

People in the WIC program may also receive farmers market coupons.

Read More: Summer EBT Benefits Are Coming to Families in New York 

Pregnant women, new moms, and families with children under age 5 can get $25 in coupons to buy fresh fruits and vegetables at participating markets.

Local Markets That Accept Benefits

Several farmers markets near Utica accept SNAP and other nutrition benefits.

• Clinton Farmers Market
  • 21 West Park Row, Clinton
• Oneida County Public Market
  • 321 Main Street, Utica
• Mohawk Valley Farmers Market
  • 140 North Main Street, Herkimer
• Hamilton Farmers Market
  • 3 Broad Street, Hamilton

Other participating farms include:

• Final Touch Farm Stand in Waterville
• Maws Farm in Newport
• Twin Orchards Farm in New Hartford
• West End Farm in Herkimer
• Turner Farm in Ilion
• Stephens Farm in Richfield Springs

Why Shop at a Farmers Market?

Farmers markets are a great place to buy fresh food close to home.

You can meet the farmers who grow your food, learn new recipes, and support local businesses.

If you receive SNAP benefits, a trip to your local farmers market could help you get more food for your money this summer.