HARRISONBURG, Va. – Families who rely on SNAP and EBT benefits can still buy fresh food at the Friendly City Food Co-op. Thanks to a grant from Virginia Fresh Match, this program makes healthy eating more affordable.
With this initiative, shoppers can have their SNAP/EBT funds matched, which means they can buy fresh and frozen fruits, vegetables, herbs, and even seeds at a 50% discount. Just remember, only plain frozen produce qualifies, so no extra ingredients like seasonings.
Dietrich Ewing, the produce manager at the co-op, explains that anything edible that can grow is included. This offers great options for those looking to cultivate their own vegetables and herbs at home.
The Friendly City Food Co-op was created by the community to make sure everyone has access to fresh, organic food. Most of its produce comes straight from local farms, supporting both health and the region’s agriculture.
Although there is some uncertainty about future federal funding for food assistance programs, Ewing reassures shoppers that the co-op plans to keep this matching program going as long as they can. "As far as we know, the funds are there," he said. "We’re going to continue the program for as long as we can."
The trend of supporting local food systems is growing. According to a survey conducted in 2022, more than 80% of consumers are interested in buying from local sources. This movement not only boosts local economies but also promotes healthier eating habits.
For those wanting more information about using SNAP/EBT at the Friendly City Food Co-op, a visit to the store or their website will provide all the details.
To learn more about the Virginia Fresh Match program, visit Virginia Fresh Match. You can also explore the offerings at Friendly City Food Co-op.
Check out this related article: How Federal Funding Cuts Are Impacting Food Pantries: What You Need to Know
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