At-Market DO’s and DON’Ts
Share these do’s and don’ts with your clients.

DON’T be afraid to ask farmers questions; they like helping.

DO bring the entire family. Markets are 100% kid-friendly!

DON’T buy until you’ve browsed the entire market.

DO ask vendors for free recipes or prep tips – they’ve got ‘em.

DON’T forget; unused tokens can be redeemed the following week…


Token Know-How
Help your clients understand the token system. For complete FAQs regarding tokens and more, go here!

Q) How do I get tokens?
A) You’ll slide your benefits card at the market manager’s wireless terminal; it’s that easy.

Q) How much are tokens worth?
A) One token = $1. Tokens act like cash in the market.

Q) Is there a minimum amount of tokens required?
A) No, there’s no maximum either.

Q) What if I have tokens left over?
A) Use them next time; tokens do not expire. No cash exchange for tokens.

Q) What if I purchase something for $2.50?
A) You can either add more product or ask for change from the farmer.

Service Provider Tools
A complete tool kit including brochures, press releases, posters, and more (in both Spanish and English) – is available to you at www.snaptomarket.com/materials.php





Stay Informed!
This is the last Market Share newsletter. (Click here to read the first email. Click here to read the second email.). But don't worry, we'll stay in touch by sending e-newsletters this summer, packed with market info just for market shoppers. Help jump start our e-newsletter campaign by encouraging your clients to sign up here.

 

All 450 farmers markets across New York State are bustling with activity and brimming with the Empire State’s bounty: We’re entering prime market season! Did you know that over 180 of these markets welcome EBT/Food Stamp/SNAP benefits? Benefits recipients can experience all that their local farmers market has to offer – from community socializing to healthy, flavorful food.

In this newsletter, we’ll share “insider” tips you can pass along to your clients, empowering them to Snap to Market! with confidence and ease. For a complete program overview, visit www.snaptomarket.com.



Once you’ve helped your client find a nearby market that accepts EBT/Food Stamp/SNAP benefits (using our market locator), share these “secrets” for smart market shopping!

#1 Prep Like a Pro: What to Bring
Reusable shopping bags that are durable and environmentally safe? Check. Comfy shoes and cool clothing? Check. Sense of adventure and an open mind? Check. Ready to GO!

#2 See What’s In Season!
Smart market shoppers like to know what’s in season so they can plan menus around the freshest, just-picked items. Spend some time familiarizing yourself with what’s in season by using our seasonality charts: There’s one chart for fruit and one for veggies!

#3 Make a List – Check it Twice
While a farmers market is a wonderful place to wander and explore, make the most of your time with a list of what to buy. You can still be open to new items, but ensure you’ve got your basics covered. A good idea is to create a “master list” of items you need, then visit the farmers market before a grocery store trip. You may be surprised what’s available beyond just produce: eggs, jams, jellies, farm-raised meats, cheeses, fresh bread and bakery items, and much more! These at-market items are all covered by your benefits. And, the quality will be unsurpassed by supermarket goods.

#4 Early Birds Catch…the Best Produce!
Come early and you’ll find the best selection. Walk the whole market and check what’s on display. You can then make the best choices after you have seen all the options. Remember, price is not the only thing to look for. Check out the quality of the products, the sizes offered, and the variety.

#5 See the Writing on the Wall
…On the calendar, that is. Mark down your local farmers market dates on your calendar. The dates and times of each market accepting benefits can be found here. This visual cue will remind you that it’s time to Snap to Market! Get into a healthy routine of visiting each week: You’ll establish relationships with farmers and community members and learn what foods you like.

#6 Plan Ahead for Transportation –
But Don’t Worry About Your Bags!
Parking is always an issue at farmers markets as they are often in urban settings. You may have to park on the street, in a public parking lot, or around the block and then walk to market. But you won’t have to carry heavy purchases through the market while you shop! Most farmers are glad to hold purchases for later pick-up. If you don’t have your own transportation, markets are often near main bus routes or inquire with your housing authority about options (if you living in senior or subsidized housing, complimentary transportation to market may be available).