This bill is a crucial and necessary step for improving the WIC Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) and increasing access to fresh and healthy foods to families who would not normally have funds to purchase these products. These improvements will further establish partnerships between farmers and WIC families and return investments directly to the local farm economy. “With the success we have seen with technological innovations at farmers markets in multiple states, it is paramount that we streamline FMNP processes and adopt new technologies so that more states can join the program and more families can access healthy foods,” says Dr. Jamila Taylor, President and CEO of the National WIC Association.

WIC FMNP provides millions of servings of fruits and vegetables to women and children as well as millions of dollars in sales directly to American farmers. In 2019, the WIC FMNP benefited more than 15,000 farmers, 2,400 farmers’ markets, and 2,150 road stands nationally. Access to healthy, fresh, local food for low-income families will have a tremendous impact on communities across the country. These low-income families are most affected by disproportionate rates of chronic illnesses, and having the ability to purchase these foods could make a difference in their lives. 

“This bipartisan legislation expands opportunities for families to bring healthy meals to their kitchen table! When we can support our farmers, farmers’ markets, and increase access to healthy, nutritious choices for our kids and young families, it’s a win-win,” said Sen. Ernst, a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee.

Please use our pre-drafted letters to urge your senators to co-sponsor and support the Farm Fresh Food for Families Act. If they have already sponsored or co-sponsored the bill, you can send a message of thanks.