A big change is coming to the benefits programs at the 2022 Boyle County Farmers Market (BCFM) for WIC and Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) customers. They are going digital, no more vouchers and no more limits on daily spending at the market.

WIC and SFMNP customers will use either an app on their smartphone or a benefit card.  Each customer will have a unique QR code and PIN to access their farmers market benefits account.

BCFM farmers will have an app and use their phone cameras to access the WIC or SFMNP benefit page.  The farmer will enter the sale amount and that amount will be automatically deducted from the total benefit.

This season WIC farmers market customers will receive a $30 benefit for the season and the SFMNP benefit is $48 for the market season.  The season will last from June to October.  Unlike in prior years, this season there will be no daily limit on what can be spent at the market within the $30 and $48 season benefit.

“This will be a big change for the market and its customers and farmers and so we ask that people be patient as we navigate the new system,” said Breanna Simpson, assistant market manager and benefits coordinator.   She continued, “some of our farmers and some of our customers may be new to the digital app experience.  But the most important thing is that our farmers can sell more produce and our benefits customers have access to great, locally grown fruits and vegetables.”

If you qualify for these programs, the WIC Farmers Market benefit is available through the Boyle County Health Department and the SFMNP benefit is available through Bluegrass Community Action Partnership (BGCAP).  The number of participants is limited and so contact these agencies ASAP.

In addition to the State farmers market benefits, BCFM will once again be offering Kentucky Double Dollars (KYDD) for WIC, SFMNP and SNAP.  For WIC and SFMNP, there has been a reduction in the match this season.  Each customer will receive four, $4.00 paper vouchers, for a $16.00 benefit for the market season.  WIC and SFMNP customers should visit the KYDD tent to pick up their season vouchers.  The KYDD vouchers cannot be replaced if they are lost or stolen and so they should be kept in a safe place for use during the season.

BCFM has 12 farmers participating in the WIC, SFMNP and KYDD programs this season.  Use of the benefits is still limited to Kentucky grown fruits and vegetables, although Seniors can purchase honey with their benefits.

Please stop by the KYDD tent at the market at Constitution Square on Saturdays between 9AM and 12 Noon with any questions or to pick up your vouchers after June 1.