SC Appleseed believes that ending hunger, along with ensuring access to healthy foods, should be the focus of our health officials. The SNAP program is the country’s best defense against hunger which means preserving the program along with increasing its buying power is the right solution for South Carolina.
This is why we were pleased to work with a group of state Legislators and the SC Department of Social Services (SCDSS) to developed a state-wide program to increase the buying power of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for fresh produce. As a result, South Carolina has pursued (and received Federal approval for) a state-wide Healthy Bucks Program that will ensure our most vulnerable residents won’t go hungry, expand access to healthy foods for low-income families, support local farmers, and grow our economy.
It’s a common sense solution and a win for everyone.
Beginning in June 2014, recipients of SNAP, formerly known as food stamps, will be able to double the amount of fresh fruits and vegetables (up to $5) purchased with their EBT cards at participating farmers market locations.
Officials with the SCDSS have announced that six farmers market locations across the State are piloting a program called “Healthy Bucks” to encourage Farmers Market purchases.
- Only purchases for fruits and vegetables qualify for the Healthy Bucks token.
- With a purchase of at least $2.50, SNAP recipients will be eligible for a $5 token to be used for the purchase of fresh fruits and vegetables.
The Healthy Bucks Program will be available at the following locations through the end of this year’s growing season:
Market Name | Address | Healthy Bucks Start Date |
Colleton Museum Farmers Market | 506 E. Washington Street Walterboro, SC 29488 |
June 7, 2014 |
Chester Farmers & Artisans Market | 250 West End Street Chester, SC 29706 |
June 7, 2014 |
Hub City Farmers Market | 298 Magnolia Street Spartanburg, SC 29306 |
May 24, 2014 |
Right Choice Fresh Start Farmers Market | 3310 Magnolia Street Orangeburg, SC 29118 |
June 6, 2014 |
Kershaw County Farmers Market | 631 West Dekalb Street Camden, SC 29020 |
June 6, 2014 |
Easley Farmers Market | 205 N. 1st Street Easley, SC 29640 |
June 7, 2014 |
For more information, contact Robin Verenes at (803) 898-7510.
