North Dakota State University Extension is looking to partner with farmers markets to expand North Dakotans’ access to affordable fruits and vegetables during a time of increased need.

This partnership will provide funding support, training, supplies and technical assistance to increase the number of farmers markets that accept Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) as well as implement Double Up programs in North Dakota. The Double Up program doubles the value of SNAP benefits spent at participating markets, helping people bring home more healthful fruits and vegetables while supporting local farmers.

The project runs from December 2020 through September 2021.

“All farmers markets that are interested in accepting SNAP and implementing a Double Up incentive program are encouraged to apply,” says Jan Stankiewicz, NDSU Extension community health and nutrition specialist. “Funding will suit the individual needs of the market, including but not limited to staff time for part-time market management, electronic benefits transfer equipment and signage/advertising, as well as funding to operate the Double Up incentive program.”

Participating markets must:

• Complete weekly and/or monthly reports
• Keep accurate records
• Participate in four to six required trainings

The initial form that farmers markets must complete is available at https://forms.gle/QtrbS78Dqec5XiCr8.

The deadline to complete this form is January 5, 2021. NDSU Extension will notify markets of their selection by January 15, 2021.

This opportunity is open to markets that accept SNAP and those that do not yet accept SNAP. Markets will receive preference if they:

• Operate in a high-need geographical region
• Operate on a consistent basis
• Do not have a sustainable Double Up program
• Have an existing relationship with NDSU Extension and/or the Family Nutrition Program/SNAP-Ed program

Visit https://tinyurl.com/NutritionIncentiveHub or contact Stankiewicz at jan.stankiewicz@ndsu.edu for more information.

This project is a part of the GusNIP NTAE Center’s Capacity Building and Innovation Fund, which focuses on strengthening nutrition incentive and producing prescription programs in high-need communities while fostering innovative approaches to communications and technology.

NDSU Agriculture Communication - Dec. 10, 2020

Source: Jan Stankiewicz, 701-328-9719, jan.stankiewicz@ndsu.edu

Editor: Ellen Crawford, 701-231-5391, ellen.crawford@ndsu.edu