In partnership with the non-profit Maine Federation of Farmers’ Markets (MFFM), the annual Boothbay market is breaking down barriers to fresh, local foods with its new SNAP/EBT and voucher program.

A quick stop at the market’s Information Booth next to the gazebo, run by members of Healthy Lincoln County, to pick up a shopping sheet, is all people need to get started.

As previously reported in the Register, this collaboration makes it easier for people to use SNAP/EBT benefits to shop across the entire market, while also absorbing expenses on the farmers' end. Previously, the relationship was between individual farmers and shoppers, which can become expensive. 

Jeffrey Knox, owner of Dharma Farms, has been attending the Boothbay market for 11 years and is one of the people responsible for MFFM’s presence at the event. 

He explained, there are fees involved with accepting benefits. For instance, it costs them $200 a year to accept SNAP with their card reader, but MFFM helps spread the cost out, so they’re not bearing its brunt. 

“Our whole mission is to feed people, and those with need are definitely top of our list.”  

Another perk is that people who use SNAP get their purchase amount matched with "Maine Harvest Buck" vouchers that can then be spent on fruits and veggies. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the program, now running at over 60 markets across the state. According to MFFM spokesman Kelsey Kobik, the project has steadily grown, especially in the last two years, with more people being drawn to their local markets. 

“We are trying to encourage folks to come and enjoy all of the benefits of shopping at a farmer’s market,” said Jaime Berhanu, MFFM development and operations coordinator. This includes feeding themselves nutritious foods, and feeding their social-emotional needs by building personal relationships and fostering a sense of community.  

MFFM also hopes to introduce its Maine Senior Farm Share program to the region. The program provides $50 vouchers to help supplement seniors on a fixed income.  

Donations to the Maine Harvest Buck program can be made at mainefarmersmarkets.org

The market is on Boothbay Common and runs every Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. until early October.