FAQ
Why do farmers' market prices seem like they are more expensive?
They are not always more expensive. Give it a chance! There are many reasons why farmers market pricing can sometimes seem out of reach. The costs you don’t see can include fertilizer, seeds, certificates, labor costs, etc.
What is a food hub?
Good question! Food hubs bring together products from multiple farmers and offer it to larger-scale buyers. Farmers who don’t have enough time or products to reach larger markets on their own can sell through a food hub. Buyers who can’t deal with separate accounts for multiple farmers can buy locally through a food hub. They also offer community members the option to purchase a community-supported agriculture box.
Is local food safe?
Local food promotes a safer food supply. The more steps there are between you and your food’s source the more changes there are for contamination. Food grown in distant locations has the potential for food safety issues at harvesting, washing, shipping and distribution. Local growers can tell you how the food was grown. You can ask what practices they use to raise and harvest the crops. When you know where your food comes from and who grew it, you know a lot more about that food.
What is Bridge to Benefits?
Bridge to Benefits is a project by the Children’s Defense Fund-Minnesota to improve the well-being of families and individuals by linking them to public work support programs and tax credits. By answering a few simple questions, you will be able to see if you or someone else may be eligible for public work support programs. They will NOT ask you for information that identifies you. Click HERE to start the screening process.
What is food insecurity?
Food insecurity is when people can’t access the food they need to live their fullest lives.
What is a food desert?
A food desert is an area where people have limited access to healthful and nourishing foods.
What is a food swamp?
A food swamp is an area that has more access to less nutritious foods than nutrient-dense foods.
What is a food shelf?
A food shelf is a nonprofit organization that gives food to people in need. Food shelves collect, store, package and give away food.
Who can use the food shelf in MN?
Food shelves are available to anyone in Minnesota who self-reports that their household income is at or below 300% of the federal poverty guidelines or participates in one of many public assistance programs.
What is a community meal?
A community meal is often served by an organization to provide a meal for those who are in need. This is also an opportunity for those in attendance to strengthen bonds, share stories, relax and get to know each other.
I am being told to sign up for Meals on Wheels but I don't know what that is.
Meals delivered to elderly people who are unable either to prepare meals or have meals otherwise provided.
How do I sign up for Meals on Wheels?
Visit Aitkin County CARE’s website for information or to register call 218-749-2912 or 1-800-662-5711 ext 7323 (toll-free)
What is “Local” Food?
Anyone who has shopped at a farmers market can appreciate the freshness of the food, the interaction with farmers, and the opportunity to learn how the food was produced.
What is SNAP?
SNAP stands for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly known as Food Stamps. This program helps Minnesotans with low incomes get the food they need for nutritious and well-balanced meals. SNAP provides extra support to help stretch a household’s food budget – it is not meant to cover all the groceries a family needs.
How do I know if I qualify for SNAP?
What is WIC?
WIC stands for Women, Infants and Children. This is a nutrition and breastfeeding program that helps eligible pregnant women, new mothers, babies and young children. WIC provides nutrition education and counseling, nutritious foods, and referrals to health services.
How do I know if I qualify for WIC?
How do I find a local farmers market that accepts EBT?
View the SNAP/EBT map on the Minnesota Hunger solutions website or check out the All Food Resource Map
How do I use EBT at the farmers market?
First, you want to locate a welcome booth at the market. The booth often has a sign that says “EBT/Credit/Debit Accepted Here.” The manager will swipe your EBT card for the amount you want to spend. Enter your PIN. You will receive wooden tokens or some other type of scrip (i.e. coupon) to purchase eligible items. Eligible vendors will display signs indicating they accept EBT in their booths.
How do I know how much to spend at the farmers market with my tokens?
Before shopping, determine an amount to spend at the market based on your budget. Window Shop! This will give you an idea of the goods you want to purchase and their respective vendors’ prices.
What can I purchase at a farmers market with my EBT card?
The following items can be purchased with an EBT card: fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, honey, maple products, jams, jellies, pickles, sauces, baked goods, seeds and plants that produce food.
What can't I purchase at a farmers market with my EBT card?
The following items cannot be purchased with an EBT card: food intended for immediate consumption at the market (such as coffee or prepared hot foods); non-food items such as crafts, clothes, or flowers; and produce intended for ornamental purposes only, such as gourds for carving pumpkins.
How do I get matching funds at the market if I have EBT?
Go to the welcome or information booth at the farmers market and they will help you get what you need. You can also check out the Market Bucks map.
Why do farmers' market prices seem like they are more expensive?
There are many reasons why farmers’ market pricing can sometimes seem like it can be out of reach. The costs you don’t see can include costs for fertilizer, seeds, certificates, labor costs, etc.