Vouchers Double Value of Food Stamps at Boston Farmers’ Markets
A new city program designed to expanded access to locally grown fruits and vegetables will give people vouchers to double the value of food stamps at 14 farmers' markets in Boston.
June 25, 2009 | Source: The Boston Globe | by Andrew Ryan
A new city program designed to expanded access to locally grown fruits and vegetables will give people vouchers to double the value of food stamps at 14 farmers’ markets in Boston.
The vouchers, dubbed Boston Bounty Bucks, are now available at 14 of the city’s roughly 22 farmers’ markets. Shoppers will be able to swipe their benefit cards on portable credit card readers at the market to receive up to $20 in vouchers by spending $10 worth of food stamps.
“It makes it easier for low-income residents to make healthier food choices and share in the bounty of Massachusetts grown farm fresh fruits and vegetables,” said Jim Greene, who works in the office of Mayor Thomas M. Menino.
Boston will join more than a half dozen communities across the country with similar double-voucher programs, including Atlanta, San Diego, Providence, and Holyoke. This afternoon at the Brigham Circle farmers’ market in Mission Hill, Menino will introduce Boston Bounty Bucks as he outlines several health initiatives, including a new Food Policy Council.
The mayor hopes to strengthen the relationship with local framers who venture into urban neighborhood to sell their wares. One major goal is to significantly increase the amount of locally grown food that is eaten in Boston.