Local Produce Gains Fans Among Users Of Food Stamps

KALAMAZOO, MI — Fresh, local produce doesn't have to be a luxury.

Coupon and token systems are available for those on food stamps or those receiving Women, Infant and Children (WIC) assistance to buy produce at farmers markets, giving people a chance to eat the best produce available while supporting local farmers.

The Kalamazoo Farmers Market on Bank Street and the People's Food Co-Op's 100-Mile Market both have Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) machines so people can purchase produce from local vendors with Bridge Cards.

Elizabeth Forest, board chairwoman of Fair Food Matters and People's Food Co-Op booth manager at the Kalamazoo Farmers Market, said this will be the third year an EBT machine has been at the Bank Street market. It has been put to good use.

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