I’m really impressed by Humboldt’s desire to make sure that folks in need have access to fresh food via the Farmer’s Markets (you can use your food stamps at the Farmer’s Market, you know!), the fact that you can use food stamps for vegetable starts, and now this initiative by Food for People.
If you know of anyone struggling to make ends meet, please tell them about these programs. I don’t know how anyone can work hard to get out of poverty without access to the fresh food that gives us energy and helps our brains work, so the more folks in need that know about these programs that can help, the better.
From the Gardening Gazette:
“Food for People is sponsoring a Free Produce Market until October through a generous St. Joseph’s Health System grant! This is a great chance to get FREE fresh and nutritious fruits and vegetables!
In Eureka, Food for People’s Free Produce Market is held at Food for People on the 3rd Thursday of every month from 12pm- 2pm.
In Fortuna, the Free Produce Market is at Fortuna Community Services on the 3rd Wednesday of the month from 11:30am to 1:30pm.
The Free Produce Market is in Southern Humboldt on the 2nd Tuesday of the month from 10:30am to 12:00pm at the Garberville Presbyterian Church and from 12:30pm to 2pm it is at Redway Baptist Church.
Please bring your own bags!
Food stamps are another way to access nutritious fresh foods. The Food Stamp Program is a USDA nutrition assistance program that helps low-income individuals and families buy food.
Food stamps can also be used to start a garden, which is an economical way to access fresh produce throughout the season.
Food for People is available to help folks apply for food stamps both at the food bank and at various pantry sites throughout the county. Food for People staff will be at the North Coast Resource Center (formerly the Endeavor) on the third Tuesday of every month, the McKinleyville Pantry (located at the Grace Good Shepherd Church) on the 4th Wednesday, and the St. Joseph’s Shelf Pantry in Fortuna on the fourth Friday of every month.
For more information about, or to learn about your eligibility for, the Free Produce Market or food stamps please call Ronli at (707) 445- 3166 ext 305 or email rlevi@foodforpeople.org.”
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Glad to hear that the community is working in the direction to share the opportunity for fresh produce. When I lived in Arcata we participated in ” Food Not Bombs” organized by locals, to help provide that to those in need. Riding a bike ,with trailer, full from the market to homes and the sometimes the square to make feasts!