Farmers' Market
During summer months, select health departments in South Carolina participate in the WIC Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (FMNP). This is a joint effort with the South Carolina Department of Agriculture that encourages WIC participants to add more fresh fruits and vegetables to their diets. Participants receive checks that may be used only for fresh produce at local farmers’ markets and farm stands that have been approved by the FMNP administrative agencies. Participants also take part in nutrition education classes that help them to choose, store and prepare fresh produce.
Currently, WIC offices in the following counties participate in the FMNP: Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Beaufort, Berkeley, Charleston, Darlington, Dorchester, Florence, Georgetown, Greenwood, Hampton, Horry, Jasper, Lexington, Newberry, Orangeburg, Richland, Saluda, Williamsburg and York. Availability and program dates are available from individual sites in these counties.
A similar program designed for senior citizens in South Carolina is administered by the South Carolina Department of Social Services and the South Carolina Department of Agriculture. Call 1-800-768-5700 for information on this program.
Additional FMNP information is available through these links:
SC Dept of Social Services Senior Citizens Farmers Market:
www.healthyhelpings.org/farmers.html
South Carolina Department of Agriculture: www.scda.state.sc.us/pro&services/marketdevelopment/smallfarm.htm
USDA Food and Nutrition Service Farmers Market Facts, Answers and Questions:
www.fns.usda.gov/wic/FMNP/FMNPfaqs.htm