Farms stands to accept food stamp card
By Reem Nasr, Staff Writer
Healthier food choices are now available at Von Thun’s Country Farm in South Brunswick for families who receive food stamps.
Which means patrons of the Jamesburg Farmers Market, held every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Saturday at the Jamesburg Presbyterian Church until Oct. 2, will also have the option. Von Thun’s is just one of several local farms that frequent the market.
The new program now allows families to use food stamps at farmers markets throughout New Jersey. The pilot program was kicked off July 9 and is a collaboration between the state departments of Human Services and Agriculture. The goal of the program is to make healthier food choices more available to lower income residents.
Bob Von Thun of Von Thun’s Country Farm Market on Ridge Road is participating in the pilot. Ten years ago, he used to accept food stamps when they were still paper coupons.
”This is a good opportunity to get back into the market to give the opportunity to people to have fresh fruit and vegetables,” said Mr. Von Thun.
The program will allow families to scan their Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards at community farmers markets by providing farmers with the wireless equipment necessary to process these transactions.
Ellen Lovejoy, spokeswoman for the state Department of Human Services, said the wireless equipment will mean farmers can tailgate at different markets and still accept EBT cards.
”Maintaining good nutrition while on a low budget is what these families struggle with on a daily basis,” said Ms. Lovejoy. “This program will stretch their food dollars.”
There are at least 15 farmers participating throughout the state, including several in Middlesex County.
According to Ms. Lovejoy, they have been very excited to provide healthier choices and be a part of the program.
Lynne Richmond of the State Department of Agriculture echoed these thoughts.
”This is a win-win situation,” said Ms. Richmond. “Consumers can now access healthier foods while farmers have the opportunity to sell more produce to a wider range of consumers.”
She said that going to a farmers market is also a social experience that allows people to connect with their food and farmers. More than just financial gains, the program allows the community to come together and appreciate the sources of their food.
”I have no doubt that the program will grow in the future,” said Ms. Richmond. “The farmers are interested in increasing their customer base.”
New Jersey is one of the first states to offer this kind of wireless technology to farmers markets.
In Monroe Township, R&K Farm, on Rhode Hall Road, owner Rob Balz Said that with the bad economy it was a good way to bring in more profit. He tailgates at farmers markets in Highland Park and Somerset.
”It offers another source of money from a larger number of customers,” said Mr. Balz.
For a complete list of participating farmers markets, visit www.njfoodstamps.com.
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