Local Farmers Market uses mini grant to support local fresh produce

WARWOOD, W.Va. (WTRF) – Doubling purchase power for fresh fruits and vegetables at farmers markets is the West Virginia Food and Farm Coalition’s mission, and they are continuing to serve in Warwood.

The West Virginia Farmer’s Market Association awarded the Warwood Farmers Market over $4,000 in grant funding to help improve their facilities, increase outreach, and enhance their overall impact on local food systems.

They have used this funding to purchase a new shed.

Recipients were also able to double and even triple their statewide SNAP benefits to make the most out of purchasing local produce.

“The West Virginia Farmer’s Market Association today is so happy to be here at the Warwood Farmers Market. They were a recipient of a 2023 mini grant program. They got $4,050 to put in a new storage building to support their markets infrastructure. So we are here today to celebrate their success and the completion of their mini grant.”

Holly Morgan – Executive Director, West Virginia Farmers Market Association

”SNAP Stretch not only gives more funds to farmers and grocery stores, but actually keeps more money in the state itself. A lot of times this money will leave the state through Walmart and Kroger, but by shopping locally it stays in the state and our local economy.”

Cordel Bostic – Communications and Legislative Coordinator, West Virginia Food and Farm Coalition

Currently, the SNAP Stretch Program is temporarily paused during the peak agricultural season due to dwindling funds and increasing popularity.

They are looking to the special session in August where they will be requesting $500,000 of the state’s $800 million budget surplus to keep the program going for another four years.

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