Contacts:
Jean Hamilton, Northeast Organic Farming Association of Vermont, (802) 434-4122

Monday, September 22, 2008

WHAT: The Northeast Organic Farming Association of Vermont (NOFA Vermont) and partners from the EBT and Debit Cards at Farmers’ Markets Working Group will announce the success of the 2008 expansion of the number of farmers’ markets accepting food stamps and debit cards and the continuation of the program in winter farmers’ markets across the state.

Over 55,000 Vermonters rely on food stamps to assist with grocery bills. With skyrocketing food and fuel prices, we can expect more Vermonters to depend on the Food Stamp Program to help meet their basic nutrition needs. In recognition of this increased need, the State of Vermont is broadening the eligibility requirements for the Food Stamp Program to include more Vermonters in need.

This project has enabled food stamp recipients to purchase fresh, local foods including produce, meats, cheese, and breads at 10 farmers’ markets that previously lacked the technology needed to read the EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) cards. Thanks to support from the Northern Vermont Resource Conservation and Development Council, the George D. Aiken Resource Conservation and Development Council, and the USDA Farmers’ Market Promotion Program the program has successfully expanded to 10 markets, more than doubling the number of participating markets from last year’s pilot project of 3 markets.

WHO:
Jean Hamilton, NOFA Vermont
Renee Richardson, Food & Nutrition Program Director, Vermont Department for Children and Families, Economic Services Division
Anson Tebbetts, Dep. Secretary of Agriculture, Vermont Agency of Agriculture
Paul Betz, Vegetable Farmer and Capitol City Farmers’ Market Vendor

WHEN: Saturday, September 27, 2008 10AM

WHERE: Capitol City Farmers’ Market, 60 State Street, Montpelier