Food Assistance Program at the Store...and Now the Market!

As we head into another hot and sunny weekend in Ohio, I'm reminded of the limited advice I have for gardening and farming, advice that has to be credited to my childhood friend's grandmother: sun is good, water is great, if plants have both, they'll fill your plate.

If you're planning on hitting the farmer's markets this weekend, or you've been hit with a late-start enthusiasm to start a garden, remember how the Food Assistance Program can help Ohio's families. Many farmer's markets across the state now accept EBT cards. Look for signs at your local markets and food stands. Some booths also accept WIC vouchers. What a great way for Ohio's low-income families to have more access to fresh, healthy produce options!

For those looking to start, continue, or revive their garden, the Food Assistance Program is there for you as well. You can use your EBT card to purchase seeds and plants, provided they are edible (tomatoes, carrots, etc.) and they are purchased at a place that accepts the EBT card. (Think Kroger, Giant Eagle, Wal-Mart, etc. not Lowes or your local garden center.) This could be a great conversation to start with folks in regards to a community garden. Low income neighbors? No problem! You'll see a large return on investment. A 6-pack of tomato plants typically costs around $3. You'll get about 20 pounds of tomatoes PER PLANT from that $3 investment. That's incredible!

Long story short, the Food Assistance Program is showing up more places than your local grocery store. Find those places, get the word out, and go crazy!

Eat well, support your local growers, and don't get heat stroke!