Access to nutritious, locally sourced food is essential for healthy communities. The British Columbia Farmers' Market Nutrition Coupon Program (FMNCP) addresses this need by connecting lower-income families, seniors, and pregnant individuals with fresh produce and food products from local farmers' markets. This initiative enhances food security, supports local agriculture, and fosters community connections. FMNCP will share information about the 2025 season in April, which will depend on funding.
Understanding the FMNCP
The FMNCP is a healthy eating initiative that supports farmers' markets and strengthens food security across British Columbia. The coupons can be spent at all BCAFM member farmers' markets that participate in the FMNCP and can be used to purchase vegetables, fruits, nuts, eggs, dairy, herbs, vegetable and fruit plants, honey, meat, and fish.
Program Eligibility and Participation
Community partner organizations distribute coupons to eligible participants, including lower-income families, pregnant individuals, and seniors. Households enrolled in the program may receive up to $27 per week in coupons for up to 16 weeks. The amount, frequency, and duration can vary according to each partner's program guidelines and the length of the farmers' market season in the community.
To become a participant, individuals must contact local community partners responsible for enrollment and coupon distribution. BC Farmers' Markets doesn't sign people up for the coupon program or give out coupons directly. You can get coupons from the North Okanagan Friendship Center Society and Archway Society for Domestic Peace. In addition, a list of these partners is available on the FMNCP's "Where It Operates" page.
Coupon Usage and Guidelines
Coupons are accepted at participating farmers' markets from June to December. Each coupon is worth $3, and there are three types: Green, Blue, and Yellow. These coupons can be used to purchase fresh vegetables, fruits, herbs, dairy, eggs, nuts, vegetable and fruit plants, honey, fish, seafood, and meat. Processed foods or ready-to-eat meals are not eligible for purchase with these coupons.
The Farmers' Market Nutrition Coupon Program (FMNCP) offers three types of $3 coupons—Green, Blue, and Yellow—each designated for specific food categories.
The Green includes: Fresh Vegetables/Fruits, Fresh Cut Herbs, Cheese and Eggs, Nuts, and Vegetables/Fruits Plants
The Blue includes: all of the above and Fish, Seafood and Meat
The Yellow includes: all of the above and Honey
Vendors accepting coupons will display an "Accepted Here" sign at their stalls, with clear pricing on products. Change cannot be given for paper coupons, and they cannot be accepted after the final market of the season or December, whichever comes first. Coupons from previous years are expired and cannot be used.
Impact on Local Communities and Agriculture
The FMNCP benefits both participants and local economies. By providing access to fresh, locally grown food, the program supports the health and well-being of participants. Simultaneously, it bolsters local farmers and producers by increasing sales and encouraging community engagement. In 2024, the program operated in over 90 communities, assisting more than 12,000 lower-income families, seniors, and pregnant individuals in purchasing fresh, local food while building their food literacy.
Funding and Support
The Province of British Columbia primarily funds the FMNCP, with additional support from community donors. Local funders have expanded the program's reach, adding more than $250,000 in coupons. Organizations and individuals interested in supporting the program can donate through the BC Farmers' Market Nutrition Coupon Fund, contributing to the provision of fresh, locally grown food to families facing economic barriers while supporting BC farmers.
How to Get Involved
Individuals seeking to participate can find information on the FMNCP's "Individuals" page, which outlines steps to connect with local community partners. Farmers' markets interested in joining must be members of the BC Association of Farmers' Markets and collaborate with a local partner organization. Community organizations supporting lower-income families, pregnant individuals, or seniors can apply to become partners, contingent on funding announcements.
Conclusion
The Farmers' Market Nutrition Coupon Program exemplifies a collaborative effort to enhance food security, support local agriculture, and promote healthy eating among vulnerable populations in British Columbia. By connecting individuals with fresh, locally sourced food and fostering community partnerships, the FMNCP contributes to the well-being and resilience of communities across the province.
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