How UW Seattle’s Innovative Program is Transforming Food Security in Our Community

A recent study from the University of Washington reveals that Seattle’s Fresh Bucks program is making a real difference for low-income families. This initiative provides $40 a month to help families buy fresh fruits and vegetables.

Since its launch in 2012, Fresh Bucks has expanded to serve about 12,000 households. With benefits redeemable at 46 local grocery stores and farmers markets, participants have reported a 31 percent increase in food security compared to those on the waitlist. Moreover, households using Fresh Bucks consume fruits and vegetables at least three times daily, 37 percent more often than those waiting for the program.

Melissa Knox, a teaching professor at the University of Washington and lead author of the study, emphasizes the importance of such programs. “Ideally, we hope for a world where everyone has enough food,” she says. “This program is a significant step toward achieving that.”

Food insecurity, which affects many families, is linked to health problems such as diabetes and heart disease. Access to healthy food is often tougher for low-income communities, especially for families of color. Knox mentioned that further research is planned to explore the long-term health impacts of Fresh Bucks.

The program evolved from matching funds for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients to include more low-income residents after Seattle’s Sweetened Beverage Tax was introduced in 2018. This tax generated about $21.6 million in revenue in 2023, with $5.3 million allocated to Fresh Bucks. The program allows families more choices and flexibility in their dietary habits.

In 2021, a survey showed that food security rose for those newly enrolled in the program. About 25 percent of them felt food secure, compared to 16 percent at the time of application. Meanwhile, those on the waitlist saw a smaller increase. Knox pointed out that education alone isn’t enough; financial support is crucial for maintaining healthy diets.

Guillermo Cruz Ramirez shared his experience with Fresh Bucks. He enrolled during the pandemic after losing his job in construction. The program helps him buy high-quality produce for his family. However, he wishes the monthly benefit could be increased to keep pace with rising costs.

Most Fresh Bucks transactions happen at Safeway, but a push is on to include more culturally relevant stores. New shops, like Lulu Mart in Chinatown, have reported significant sales since accepting Fresh Bucks, making it easier for customers to access healthy food locally.

Despite the program’s success, about 3,900 households remain on the waitlist, highlighting the increasing need for support as federal benefits face cuts. For those interested in applying, the waitlist is accessible online.

Overall, Fresh Bucks is crucial for many families, proving that when given the opportunity to purchase healthy foods, the benefits can be substantial.



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