Market Match
Double Your CalFresh EBT Benefits at the Farmers Market with Market Match
Market Match is an incentive program which offers shoppers double value when they use EBT/Food Stamps at AIM’s Farmers Markets. For example, when you swipe your EBT card for between $1-$10 in EBT tokens at the Information Booth, you will receive a one-to-one match up to $10 in Market Match purple tokens, which can be used to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Market Match is a program designed to incentivize nutrition by matching the purchasing power of CalFresh EBT benefits, commonly known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), at 130 participating farmers markets statewide. By doubling the buying power of customers, Market Match enables low-income shoppers to purchase locally grown fruits and vegetables while also supporting local farms.
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Here’s how you can double your healthy food purchase at the farmers market:
1) Visit the AIM Info Booth at your local farmers market
2) Use your CalFresh EBT card to receive EBT market tokens
3) Receive an equal amount of Market Match tokens for free*
4) Enjoy fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables
CalFresh benefits are matched dollar-for-dollar, up to a maximum of $10 per family per market day. Market Match tokens can be redeemed for any fresh fruits or vegetables available at the farmers market.
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Market Match aims to make fresh produce more accessible to low-income families, as fruits and vegetables are crucial components of a healthy diet. However, they often cost more per calorie than processed foods, making it challenging for families on a tight food budget to afford enough for optimal health. By stretching food stamp dollars further, Market Match helps to level the playing field and make local and sustainable produce more affordable for those with limited income. The program's existence sends a message to low-income shoppers that the farmers market is a space for them.
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Market Match benefits California farmers by increasing the number of customers and dollars spent at farmers markets. According to a 2013 national evaluation, 93% of Market Match customers reported that the program was the reason for using their SNAP benefits at the market. Participating farmers reported that 69% of their customers were new, and 66% earned more income as a result. Additionally, 28% of farmers diversified their production because of the Market Match program. By supporting local and mid-sized farms, Market Match contributes to the economic sustainability of rural communities throughout the state.
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Although Market Match receives partial funding from the USDA, participating markets must also provide matching funds to receive the federal grant money. AIM is thankful for the generous donors who have made this program possible. Consider supporting food access for families in your community by making a donation to AIM today.
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In 2009, Roots of Change founded Market Match to increase access to healthy food for low-income communities and support local farmers in California. The Ecology Center took over the program in 2012. Market Match is now funded statewide through a grant from the USDA's Food Insecurity Nutrition Incentive program, which was established in the 2014 Farm Bill. For more information, visit marketmatch.org or check out the statewide map of farmers markets offering Market Match.
