Program Helps SNAP Shoppers Access Fresh Produce At Farmers Markets

Memorial Day marks the unofficial start to summer and what better way to spend it than at a farmers market. 

There is a program to help people get locally grown produce. It can be used at farmers markets and even some grocery stores statewide. It helps shoppers who use SNAP benefits get more bang for their buck, by doubling up. 

"At first it was a surprise mostly. A lot of people weren't aware that that program even exists," explained Co-Owner of Flora Bodega, Megan Sisco. 

Flora Bodega began as the Paseo Farmers Market but changed directions because of COVID. It stopped the outdoor market and became a brick-and-mortar store. The market has already accepted SNAP benefits. Megan Sisco said they then decided to join the double up program as well. 

"To make sure that in every step of this process that it's accessible to everyone no matter their income or background," said Sisco. 

To her surprise, the program was news to many of their customers. 

"We do have people come in here using SNAP benefits to pay for their produce and we let them know that we participate in this program a lot of them were like, ‘wow I had no idea that was even a thing.’" 

The program includes about 30 farmers markets, mobile markets and grocery stores statewide. 

It allows people who use SNAP to buy twice the amount of fresh, frozen, or dried produce without added salt, fat or sugar. It matches funds up to $20 a day, every day. In 2021, 20,000 households used the Double Up Oklahoma benefit during check out for a total value of about $995,000. Foot traffic at farmers markets also grew by 234%.  

When at stores, discounts are added at check out; at participating farmers markets shoppers will go to the information booth for tokens. Those tokens can be used at any of the participating farmers markets, but not in grocery stores. 

"So, fruits, vegetables, mushrooms, herbs all of those things," Sisco added, "it's also seeds and plants that are food producing so anyone that's interested in gardening can also shop and buy anything that's going to produce a food product." 

To find a participating farmers market, mobile market, or grocery store near you: https://www.doubleupoklahoma.org/market-locations/ 

For farmers markets or grocery stores wanting to take part, click here.