We’re Midwest farmers growing for Midwest eaters — a phrase Jeff and I’ve been saying for years. We believe everyone should have access to local food (year-round). Yes, it’s a lofty vision, particularly when you’re juggling the pressures of adapting to climate change and the intensity of certified organic vegetable production.
So, as seasonal farmers’ markets wind down and significant impacts to the SNAP program are on the horizon, we wanted to share more about the year-round food access support available in the Farm Store.
In Illinois, SNAP is referred to as Illinois Link. Anyone approved to receive cash assistance or SNAP (formerly known as Food Stamps) benefits will be issued an Illinois Link card. The Illinois Link card is a plastic card that looks and works like a debit card. Since 2024, we’ve accept these cards within our Farm Store.
In addition, we also offer Link Match vouchers to SNAP beneficiaries. Here’s how it works: for every SNAP purchase in our Farm Store, recipients are entitled to a matching number of Link Match vouchers. For example, a SNAP customer spends $25 on farm produce and receives $25 in Link Match vouchers, allowing them to purchase $50 worth of fresh, local produce. These vouchers work like cash on our produce at our Farm Store or on produce at any participating grocers or farmers’ markets. It’s a win-win for both SNAP customers and farmers.
While the SNAP and Link Match programs don’t work (easily) for purchasing CSA shares, we’re working behind the scenes to make this a reality in the future. In the meantime, we welcome you to spread the word about the Link Match in the farm store. We also support the Avon Township Food Pantry weekly with produce donations. Together, students, volunteers, and farmers have gleaned and shared nearly 7,000lbs so far this year, including donated CSA shares from you (thank you!).
Please help us spread the word to those who may need nutrient-dense food right now. If you would like to do more, please donate to support weekly donation deliveries and our work prepare food for our local food pantry. Or, give to your local food pantries directly! Thank you for supporting a vision of local food for all.
Warmly,
Your Midwestern farmers