The Hot Springs Farmers & Artisans Market will offer Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program recipients the opportunity to double their spending power on fresh produce this summer, after recently becoming one of only six Arkansas sites to pilot a Double Bucks program made possible by the Arkansas Coalition for Obesity Prevention and Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance.
Nutrition Consultant Christine McKnelly, who works for the Chronic Disease Prevention and Control Branch of Arkansas Department of Health, said in a news release that Federal nutrition assistance incentive programs "benefit the health and the economy of a community. The Hot Springs Farmers & Artisans Market was chosen because of its capacity to implement the pilot program, the board members' willingness to work with the Arkansas Department of Health to capture and share important lessons learned, the design, location and accessibility of this market, and the city of Hot Springs' strong support and partnership."
The Double Bucks pilot program will enable SNAP recipients to double their EBT purchases at the market. This means that every $5 spent at the market on fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, eggs and baked items will be matched with an additional $5, up to $20 each week during the Double Bucks incentive period.
"Affordability is often a perceived barrier in purchasing locally grown foods and the Double Bucks incentive program can help remove that barrier," said Elaine Nesmith, Growing Healthy Communities executive team member and Hot Springs Farmers & Artisans Market board member. "Studies have shown that removing barriers to nutritious foods improves the health equity for all citizens in a community while also benefiting local farmers. This is a win-win and we are pleased to have been chosen to help initiate this pilot program."
"The city of Hot Springs recently assigned Community Recreation Program status to the market because of its service and commitment to the community. The board continues to grow and serve more people while always looking for ways to include nutrition, health, wellness, arts, music, children's activities and fun. We look forward to continuing in our shared vision," said Jean Wallace, Parks & Trails and Community Recreation Program director.
"The mission of the Hot Springs Farmers & Artisans Market is to increase access to area farmers, healthful foods, nutrition education, and the arts. The board members of the Hot Springs Farmers & Artisans Market felt this was an important way for us to improve the commitment to our mission," said Ryan Johnston, the market's board president.
"The community is behind our program and strongly supports our efforts. The University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service, Levi Hospital, Growing Healthy Communities, and city of Hot Springs are all committed to growing a healthier community, while also supporting local farmers and small businesses," Johnston said.
Email [email protected] to volunteer or to receive more information about the program.
Entertainment on 06/04/2015