The Bayview Farmers Market approved donations to two South Whidbey organizations at a recent membership meeting.

The South Whidbey Schools Foundation and the Community Gardening Leadership Training Program were both the recipients of $500 checks. Farmers Market Board President Shirlee Read said in a press release that “this is just one way the market can give back to the community that supports them.”

Past donations have benefitted Hearts and Hammers of South Whidbey and the Whidbey Island Nourishes program. In addition to the two donations, the membership also earmarked $500 toward matching funds for those who use EBT (food stamps) at the Bayview market. For every dollar spent in EBT funds, the market matches up to $20 in market bucks to be used for food of any kind. With added donations from Goosefoot and individuals, the pool of matching bucks is over $1200 this year, making shopping for a variety of home-grown vegetables and fruits from more than eight participating vendors entirely affordable for EBT users throughout the market season.

New board members were also elected at the annual membership meeting on Feb. 9. New to the board are: Arwen Norman, vice president; Marsha Sloan, secretary; and Hal Jackson, representative at-large. Returning to the board are: Shirlee Read, president; Loren Imes, treasurer; and vendor representatives Pam Mitchell, Jan Gross and Meredith Macleod. Sharon Warwick will continue as market manager. Louise Abbott was appointed by the board to be the community representative.

The Bayview Farmers Market opens outside on April 30, 10 a.m. at Bayview Corner. Opening day will have fun events, vendor specials and both new and returning vendors.