For shoppers who rely on food stamps, a few of Whidbey’s farmers markets are offering a way to purchase fresh produce at the seasonal markets.
Shoppers accessing the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, can now receive food at both the Bayview Farmers Market and the South Whidbey Tilth Farmers Market by swiping their benefit cards.
The SNAP Market Match program was launched by the Washington State Department of Health on April 1 and includes over 100 of the state’s farmers markets.
According to a press release, SNAP users can get an additional “match” of $10.00 or more to buy more fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, mushrooms and plant starts at the farmers markets.
The Bayview Farmers Market is open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Saturday at State Highway 525 and Bayview Road, near Langley.
SNAP purchases are doubled up to $15 in Market Match currency.
South Whidbey Tilth market is open 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Sunday at Highway 525 and 2812 Thompson Road, Langley. SNAP purchases are doubled with Market Match currency with no cap at this time.
Both markets have vendors who also accept Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program, or FMNP coupons for Seniors and Women, Infants and Children, or WIC.
South Whidbey Tilth Farmers Market Manager Kirstin Clauson said in an email that the Bayview and Tilth markets are both accepting craft vendors, though no touching of items is allowed and social distancing rules will apply.
Tilth’s market is now allowing outdoor dining from concessions. No more than five people may sit at a table at a time.