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Community Corner

Ellington Farmers Market Doubles Nutrition Benefits for Low-Income Seniors and WIC Families

Doubling Food Dollars: Matching Programs Help Families and Seniors Access Fresh, Local Food

The Ellington Farmers Market is proud to continue its commitment to food access and community wellness by matching Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) benefits for low-income seniors and WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) recipients. This initiative helps ensure access to fresh, nutritious, locally grown food to low income seniors and WIC recipients.

Seniors and WIC participants can bring their FMNP cards or app to the Market Booth, where the market will match the benefit amount with market tokens. These tokens can be used to purchase food items from any food vendors. This matching program effectively doubles the buying power of recipients, allowing them to take home more healthy market foods.

Women interested in receiving FMNP benefits should contact their local WIC office, while seniors should reach out to their town’s social services department. For more information about eligibility and program details, visit the Connecticut Department of Agriculture’s FMNP website at:
🔗 https://portal.ct.gov/doag/adarc/adarc/farmers-market-nutrition-program/wic-and-senior-participants

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In addition to FMNP, the Ellington Farmers Market continues to match SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits, further extending food security for local families. In 2024 alone, the market distributed over $40,000 in matching benefits, significantly enhancing access to fresh food for low-income seniors and WIC recipients. These programs are funded through the generous donations of individuals, local businesses and grants. The Ellington Farmers Market is a 501c3 non-profit corporations. Donations can be made at paypal.com/us/fundraiser/charity/2807492

The Ellington Farmers Market takes place Saturdays rain or shine from 9 am to noon in Market Park, 72 Maple St.

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