The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) and the New York City Human Resources Administration (HRA) have collaborated to help New Yorkers eat a healthy meal at a low price with the “Health Bucks” program.
“Health Bucks” are $2 coupons redeemable for fresh fruit and vegetables that customers receive every time they use their food stamps or Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards to purchase $5 of fresh produce at any participating farmers’ market. The program is available during the 2011 farmers’ market season between July 1 and November 15.
“We want all New Yorkers to be able to take advantage of farmers’ markets and have access to nutritious, fresh fruits and vegetables,” said Dr. Thomas Farley, New York City Health Commissioner. “Health Bucks make fruits and vegetables more affordable and bring people to the farmers’ markets, where many spend some of their own money to buy these healthy items. This program is a direct way to help people get the best foods and prevent health problems ranging from heart disease to cancer.”
Beginning in the Bronx in 2005, “Health Bucks” was a pilot program that has now expanded to 65 participating markets in all five boroughs.
Besides using an EBT to receive “Health Bucks” you can also attend a Stellar Farmers’ Market cooking class and receive a $2 coupon. Stellar Farmers’ Market is also a program of the Health Department that provides nutrition workshops and cooking demonstrations at 18 participating markets.
There are currently three participating markets in Queens: Corona Greenmarket, located on Roosevelt Avenue and 103rd Street, Jackson Heights Greenmarket, located on 34th Avenue, between 77th Street and 78th Street, both of which provide cooking demonstrations, and New York Hall of Science Farmers’ Market, at 111th Street and 48th Avenue.
“Health Bucks is an excellent program that helps New Yorkers save money while promoting a healthier diet,” said HRA Commissioner Robert Doar. “Individuals and families receiving food stamps should take advantage of Health Bucks’ savings and shop for nutritious food choices by visiting a participating farmers’ market in their neighborhood.”
