The BC Association of Farmers’ Markets has delivered its Nutrition Coupon Program across the province for more than a decade.
In letters to both the Columbia Shuswap Regional District Board and to Electoral Area F Director Jay Simpson, BC Association of Farmers’ Markets Executive Director Heather O’Hara and Board Chair Wylie Bystedt provided an update on the importance and success of the program in Celista and Sorrento.
During the 2023 season, in Celista, Chase Hamper Society provided lower-income pregnant persons, families, and seniors with coupons to purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, cheese, eggs, nuts, fish, meat, herbs, and honey directly from farmers at their local farmers’ markets.
Residents redeemed $1,440 with local farmers at the Celista Hall Farmers’ Market, where more than 60 lower-income residents benefited from better access to local, fresh foods while connecting to their community.
In Sorrento where the program is delivered through the South Shuswap Health Services Society – Copper Island Health And Wellness Centre, during the 2023 season, local residents redeemed $40,116 with local farmers at the Sorrento Village Farmers Market. More than 55 lower-income Sorrento residents benefited from the program, which also provided additional income to farmers to help them sustain their farms.
The letters noted that the provincially funded program exists in more than 100 B.C. communities and strengthens local food systems.
“We encourage you to send a letter of gratitude and support to the BC Minister of Health, The Honourable Adrian Dix,” wrote O’Hara. “Your support and feedback bolsters our goal of securing ongoing and expanded funding for the BC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Coupon Program.”
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