Nearly half a million Minnesotans depend on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to put food on their table each month. Over 50% of those recipients are children and seniors. Since 2019, the number of SNAP redemptions per market day have nearly tripled at MCFM, demonstrating a rapidly increasing need for access to fresh food within our community.
Starting November 1st, SNAP food benefits will not be issued until the federal government shutdown ends. This means many of our neighbors will go hungry. It also means the small family farms relying on that dedicated shopping base will lose critical sales during the holiday season, setting them back as they begin to prepare for the next growing season.
At MCFM we believe that EVERYONE deserves access to fresh, nourishing local foods. Here is what WE are doing to protect this resource in our community:
Starting this Saturday, MCFM will provide $10 in MCFM Bucks to any customer who presents their EBT card at the Info Booth (regardless of their current balance). These MCFM Bucks can be used on any SNAP eligible items at MCFM. We will provide this until November SNAP funding has been distributed. While this match is modest compared to the $30 SNAP recipients typically receive at the market for spending $10, it ensures that low-income families and individuals can continue to shop for fresh, local food during uncertain times.
Here is what YOU can do to help your community in this time:
- Pay it forward: Donate to cover your neighbor’s groceries during this critical time. We will be making this easy to do by adding a $10 donation to any credit card transaction, putting cash in the SNAP donation box at the Info Booth, or donating via Venmo.
- Feed your neighbors: Donate food (or time and energy!) to your local food pantry or food bank. We will be hosting a food drive during the month of November, making it easier for you to drop off shelf stable food items on your market run. Give what you can, take what you need – no questions asked – what remains will be donated. You can find food pantries near you at findhelp.org
- Use your voice: Reach out to your elected officials at this link. Spread awareness & share community resources as you find them.
When times get tough, we take care of each other. We love you all!