The Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program: It’s Available Now!

How does this program benefit eligible families, seniors, participating vendors, and the Moultrie County economy?

What is the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program?

The Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) is available in Illinois through October 31, 2024. The Moultrie County Health Department (MCHD) is excited to offer this beneficial program to Moultrie County residents.

The FMNP provides eligible participants with coupons to purchase fresh produce at local farmers' markets. This initiative supports FMNP participants, vendors, and the local economy.

Who can participate in FMNP?

WIC participants:
Individuals participating in the WIC program are automatically eligible for FMNP. Other income-qualified individuals are eligible and can also obtain FMNP coupons from the MCHD.

Senior adults:
FMNP coupons are available for individuals aged 60 and older who meet the income eligibility criteria. Senior adults can obtain FMNP coupons from Mid-Illinois Senior Services in Sullivan, IL.

How does FMNP help families, seniors, and farmers?

The Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program provides young families and seniors with affordable access to fresh, nutritious fruits and vegetables. Additionally, the MCHD offers resources on preparing and using the produce.

When and how can you use FMNP coupons?

From now through October 31, 2024, FMNP coupons can be used to buy fresh produce at farmers' markets locally and across Illinois. Be sure to look for vendors displaying “Farmers' Market Checks Accepted Here,” as not all vendors accept these coupons.

Each participant receives one book of coupons. Therefore, it’s very important to keep them in a safe place until you’re ready to use them. If you cannot visit the market, someone you designate as your proxy can use the coupons on your behalf.

FMNP coupons cannot be used to pay sales tax. Subsequently, participants should use the full value of each coupon when making purchases.

What foods are eligible for purchase with FMNP coupons?

• Fresh vegetables
• Fresh fruits
• Cut herbs
• Honey (seniors only)

Eggs and processed foods cannot be purchased with FMNP coupons. For a detailed list of eligible foods, visit Moultriehealth.org or contact the Moultrie County Health Department.

Why is FMNP important to Moultrie County?

The Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program promotes the nutrition of WIC participants (pregnant women, infants, and children up to age 5) and seniors (age 60 and over). The program also seeks to:

1. Promote healthy eating habits: The FMNP encourages consuming more fruits and vegetables. Promoting such habits supports healthier eating patterns and reduces the risk of chronic diseases, including obesity.
2. Support local farmers and vendors: The FMNP creates a direct market for local farmers. This unquestionably boosts our local economy while providing fresh, locally sourced food options for eligible residents.
3. Offer consumer health education: The FMNP also includes educational components. These components help participants with nutritional information and various cooking techniques.
4. Support health and community wellness: Enhanced access to nutritious foods leads to improved health for WIC participants and seniors. Healthier babies, children, mothers, and seniors benefit our communities.

Where can I get more information about the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program?

Moultrie County residents may contact the MCHD at (217) 728-4114 and ask for the WIC program. If you’re a current WIC participant, the MCHD can help you obtain coupons. If not, the staff can help determine your eligibility.

Individuals aged 60 and older can contact Mid-Illinois Senior Services at (217) 728-8521 for eligibility details.

Farmers interested in selling produce through the FMNP program should contact the MCHD at (217) 728-4114 or the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) at 1-800-843-6154 or 1-866-2324-5553 (TTY).