"This Field Day will be a unique opportunity for farmers and others interested in seeing how the checks are processed during a market," says Alice Chalmers, executive director of Future Harvest CASA. "Crossroads Farmers Market is a leader in Maryland in integrating these programs into market operations, so we're excited to partner with them on this Field Day."

Chalmers also notes that the Maryland Department of Agriculture will be conducting a special training session as part of the Field Day that will certify farmers for both the WIC FVC and FMNP programs. "Making it as convenient as possible for farmers to learn how accept these benefits correlates to more farmers making it as easy as possible for WIC recipients to buy fresh local fruits and vegetables with their benefits."

This field day is being funded by a USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant that aims to increase redemption of WIC Fruit and Vegetable Checks at farmers markets, ensuring that local farmers also benefit from the federal dollars committed to these programs. "We think everyone can get the healthiest, most nutritious food from local farmers so we are glad to have this opportunity to increase access by getting more farmers on board," says Chalmers.

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For more information contact Renee Catacalos, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , 301-675-2299