CT Improves Farmers' Market Nutrition Program

Connecticut Agriculture Commissioner Bryan Hurlburt said Wednesday that the state's Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program will begin Saturday, June 1, a month earlier than usual, and will run through November 30, 2024.

Program participants include enrolled individuals in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Child, as well as seniors over the age of 60, and disabled individuals who meet income and housing guidelines. 

Through the program, participants can visit certified farmers’ markets and farm stands to redeem benefits for local Connecticut-grown farm products (CT Grown) including fresh, unprocessed fruits, vegetables, and eggs. Seniors may also purchase honey with their funds. Eligible WIC participants will receive $60, and seniors will receive $50 per person.

“The outdoor farmers’ market season is underway with a wide variety of CT Grown products available and more to come as different crops are ready for harvesting. By starting the program on June 1 participants will be able to access a wider variety of products, including those available earlier in the season such as strawberries,” said Hurlburt in a statement. “The Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program is critical to those facing food insecurity by providing them with expanded buying power to ensure they have access to healthy foods and provides Connecticut’s farmers additional market access to move their products and continue growing their businesses.”

There are currently more than 200 certified farmers and nearly 100 authorized redemption locations throughout the state with more to be added throughout the season, said the Connecticut Department of Agriculture.