Hello Alamo!
As many of you know, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham signed a bill after a special session in October of last year to try to minimize the effects from federal cuts to food assistance programs.
According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, over 20,000 New Mexicans did not renew their benefits this year. To me, that seems pretty good, and the stats show that it’s a huge improvement compared to othe states’ enrollment.
I sincerely hope whoever is reading this has received their SNAP/EBT with little to no hassle.
For the past few years, our city has held a farmer’s market during the summer months, June-October, at Washington Park. The unique aspect of this market is its ability to accept food assistance benefits, and some in this community are very committed to keeping it that way.
Courtney McCary and her husband, James Squyres, have opreated SquyresStudio microfarm since 2019, and have participated in the Alamogordo Farmers’ Market since 2021/22.
This past year, their wonderful family has taken a step back in their role at the 100% Otero food sector and With Many Hands because they are running the show now! This season has taken a lot of work to prepare for, like ensuring compliance with the US Department of Agriculture’s stipulations. For example, many have inquired about being a vendor for home-made crafts, and have been turned away. The USDA requires 50% of the outlet’s sales to come from staple food items.
Abiding by these rules is what allows Alamogordo Farmers’ Market to not only accept SNAP/EBT, but also Double Up Food Bucks, SUN Bucks and Bonus Bucks(the latter 2 only during summer months).
At this specific market, you can use SNAP on fresh fruit and vegetables, which automatically triggers the DUFB and Bonus Bucks so you can get triple the fresh produce to feed your family. As I said, though, the Bonus Bucks only work until August 31st.
SUN Bucks are issued on a card to every child who is on SNAP, certain benefits of Medicaid, TANF, is a migrant, runaway, foster child, unhoused, or has applied successfully to receive low-cost or free school lunches. It issues each child $120 to spend on food in the summer.
The opening date for this year’s market is this Saturday, June 6th. McCary has lined up some wonderful local entertainment as well, including Elaina Orwell on the harp, Anne Yust on the mandolin, and violin and cello from local highschoolers, starting at 9:30am. The market itself opens at 10am.
Bring your reusable bags, picnic blankets, and sun hats. I’ll see you there!
Salud!
No responses yet