Since 2010, many incentive programs have been developed as a means of encouraging healthy eating through dollar-for dollar match services for individuals using food assistance program benefits, such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), at several farmers’ markets throughout the city of Philadelphia. These incentive initiatives for SNAP or food stamps users also have been related to an increase in revenue at farmers’ markets implementing such wonderful programs.
Indeed, the Philadelphia Department of Public Health and The Food Trust instituted the Philly Food Bucks program. This program strives to make locally grown and healthy foods more affordable and accessible for low-income individuals and families. Food bucks are distributed to
shoppers using SNAP benefits. For every $5 spent using food stamps benefits at participating
markets, customers earn $2 in food bucks which can be spent in additional produce.
Additionally, the Food Trust’s farmers markets include additional features and services that make
them more than just a place to buy fresh and healthy food. They also host health screenings, nutrition
educators and cooking demonstrations.
In Southwest Philadelphia particularly, we are delighted to welcome the 58 th & Chester Farmers
market, which is located on 58 th Street, just outside the Myers Recreational Center. This Farmers’
market is opened every Wednesday from 2-6pm. The 58 th and Chester Farmers’ Market, which is
operated by The Food Trust, is even more than just an opportunity to buy food. It’s an important
neighborhood occasion, where neighbors and visitors come to shop, support local agriculture and meet
the farmers who grow their food. Darnel, one of the farmers, stated that they have encountered many
customers since beginning in July 2019. “It’s all the time busy”, asserted another farmer named
Dylan. Darnel and Dylan grow their produce at a small produce farm located in Glen Mills,
Pennsylvania, about 45 minutes from Southwest Philadelphia. Two vendors along with the farmers
manage tables pile with organic fruits and vegetables that range from collalo, carrots, sorrel, potatoes,
collard greens, cucumbers and much more. All produce are grown naturally and are pesticide free.
If you have not stopped by the 58th and Chester farmers’ market yet, don’t fret! It lasts until
Thanksgiving at the latest. If you are interested in visiting the farm, you can email them at
dndfarmllc@gmail.com with a weeks notice.
Payment Accepted at the Farmers Markets
Cash, SNAP/ACCESS cards (Food Stamps), Philly Food Bucks and WIC and Senior Farmers Market
Nutrition Program (FMNP) vouchers.
