The Pennsylvania Department if Agriculture is pushing for farmers markets to accept SNAP benefit payments from residents using the program.
“Farmers markets who don’t accept SNAP are missing an opportunity to serve their community by providing those who rely on the benefits with access to nutritious, local food,” said Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. “Not only does accepting SNAP benefit your community, but it benefits you. It’s an opportunity to expand your consumer base and increase your sales.”
The state has approximately 1,000 farmers markets, but says less than 5 percent are register to accept SNAP benefits.
"Becoming an authorized SNAP retailer is a common-sense way to help small businesses grow their consumer base and to support families so they can keep food on the table," said DHS Secretary Teresa Miller.
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"SNAP is the nation’s most important and effective anti-hunger program; it helps individuals and families stretch their budgets, reduces the burden on local charitable food networks, and supports local retailers and grocers.
“We want to do everything we can to help families who are feeling this economic strain most acutely and small businesses that have had to weather the last year of economic uncertainty, which is why we are so proud to offer this opportunity. I strongly encourage farmers markets across Pennsylvania to apply to be an authorized SNAP retailer.”
Nearly 2 million Pennsylvanians participate in the program.