Good Food For All Celebrates 8th Year: Join the Movement for Healthy, Accessible Meals!

Union Square Main Streets (USMS) is excited to kick off the 8th Annual Good Food For All campaign from June 21-28. This event brings together local businesses, farmers market vendors, and community members to raise money and awareness for the SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) match at the Union Square Farmers Market.

Since its start in 2005, the campaign has raised over $102,000 to match SNAP dollars, helping more people access fresh food from local markets.

Just to put this into perspective: in 2019, the average SNAP match per market was $297. Fast forward to 2024, and it jumped to $1,797—a remarkable 505% increase! In just the first month of this season, 224 shoppers utilized SNAP matches, and around 1,500 families are expected to benefit throughout 2025.

This clearly shows that fresh food is essential for many people in the community. Supporting Good Food For All is vital to ensure families have access to nutritious food year-round.

So, how can you help? Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Visit any of the 50+ participating businesses from June 21-28.
• Purchase a featured item or promotion.
• Businesses will then donate a portion of sales.
• Every Saturday, SNAP customers receive a dollar-for-dollar match, up to $15, for healthy food.
• You can also bring donations directly to the market or donate online.

Mary Cassesso, a USMS Board member, highlights the urgency: “The gaps in food insecurity keep growing due to federal cuts. It’s crucial we support our neighbors in need.”

This year’s fundraising goal is $15,000. To put it into perspective:
– $15 provides a SNAP match for one family.
– $60 supports one family for a month.
– $150 assists ten families.
– $800 covers the SNAP match funds for a typical Saturday market.
– $3,200 is what’s needed for a month.

Jessica Eshleman, USMS executive director, emphasizes the community’s role: “It takes a village to sustain this program. Our partnership with local businesses and individuals makes it possible for more families to enjoy nutritious food.”

The success of Good Food For All wouldn’t be possible without the support of sponsors like Liberty Cannabis and Eversource, among others. Together, we can help ensure that everyone in our neighborhood can enjoy fresh, local food.

Union Square Main Streets is dedicated to strengthening our community by promoting local businesses and creating welcoming public spaces. For more info, visit Union Square Main Streets.

In the 2024 season alone, the Union Square Farmers Market provided funds for 1,447 families to buy fresh food. Your support of Good Food For All can help sustain this essential program.

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