Cleveland residents who get SNAP benefits have an extra incentive to buy fruit and vegetables at farmers markets: a program called “Produce Perks” that matches what you spend, dollar for dollar.
The program used to be offered at Dave’s Markets locations around Cleveland, too. A federal funding cut nixed that as of late last year. But local foundations raised enough money to continue offering the program at farmers markets around Cuyahoga County.
Here’s what to know.
Who is eligible for the Produce Perks program?
Anyone with an Ohio Direction Card. If you live outside of Cuyahoga County but receive SNAP, you can visit farmers markets within the county to participate in the program.
How does the Produce Perks program work?
After arriving at the farmers’ market, go to the customer service booth and swipe your SNAP/EBT Ohio Direction Card. Tell staff how much you plan to spend. The amount you specified will be charged to your card.
You will then be handed two types of tokens: EBT tokens in the amount of SNAP you planned to spend, and a matching number of Produce Perks tokens up to $25…