MDI Farmers’ Market is now accepting SNAP
BAR HARBOR – MDI Farmers’ Market is now accepting SNAP benefits (formerly known as food stamps) through the electronic benefit transfer (EBT) system at its two locations, Eden Farmers’ Market in Bar Harbor and the Northeast Harbor Farmers’ Market.
Starting July 6 at Eden Farmers’ Market (in Bar Harbor), anyone who receives SNAP benefits can use their EBT card to purchase fresh food at the market, which takes place on Sundays from 9am to 12pm, now through October, at the corner of Park and Main Streets in the YMCA parking lot.
To make this happen, the MDI Farmers’ Market qualified for free equipment through MarketLink, a USDA grant program that funds EBT machines so that farmers’ markets across the country can accept SNAP benefits. Healthy Acadia has been working collaboratively with the market, providing staff time and funding to implement the project, thanks to a Community Transformation Grant from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
“The Farmers’ Market is an exciting part of our community, benefiting local businesses and families,” said Brett Ciccotelli, from Sweet Pea Farm, who has been helping lead the project and will be running the EBT machine that serves the entire market. “We are thrilled that now we can accept SNAP benefits, ensuring that even more people can enjoy the wonderful offerings of the market.”
There are over 400 families on MDI receiving SNAP benefits that can now shop at the farmers’ market using SNAP. Individuals with EBT cards can use their SNAP benefits to purchase food as well as any seeds or plants that grow food. In addition, certain vendors also accept WIC vouchers. The EBT machine also enables the market to accept credit and debit cards.
“Healthy Acadia is pleased to be working with the MDI Farmers’ Market and to be able to help increase access to the market to more people in the community,” said Bronwyn Clement, who spearheaded this initiative for Healthy Acadia. “By accepting SNAP, the market makes it easier for people to support their health with fresh, local, nutritious food.”
MDI Farmers’ Market will also be accepting SNAP in Northeast Harbor on Harbor Drive (on the green), on Thursdays 9am – 12pm through August.
For more information about SNAP at farmers’ markets throughout Hancock and Washington Counties, contact Katie Freedman at 667-7171 orKatie@healthyacadia.org.
For more information about the MDI Farmers’ Market, visit their website <mdifarmersmarkets.com> or Facebook page. Better yet, stop by to check out the fresh vegetables, yogurts and cheeses, herbs, breads, fresh seafood, crafts, and more!
