WIC

Many of our farmers' markets are proud participants in the WIC (Women, Infant & Children) Farmers' Market Nutrition Program. Under this federally funded program, low-income women and their young children receive special checks to spend on fresh produce at farmers' markets around our state. This program not only helps nutritionally-at risk women and children eat better, but also helps farmers by bringing new customers to the markets and increasing sales. It's also an extremely effective real-life education program--by introducing participants to our markets, they can taste a variety of new foods, and learn how to use them. It's a win-win program for everybody!
Last year, thousands of WIC participants took advantage of the outdoor markets, which featured approximately 800 New Mexico farmers and growers who participated in the program. These WIC clients brought in nearly $275,000 to markets around the state in the 2007 market season.

WIC Rules and Regulations
WIC Farmers' Market Nutrition Program checks can be used at market on any fresh produce items. WIC checks may not be used to buy other items such as honey, eggs, dried chiles, meat, prepared foods, etc. In order to participate, markets must be in at least their second year of operation, have sufficient produce vendors to supply the demand, and be willing to take on additional administrative responsibilities. Markets may not begin the WIC program mid-season.

If you are interested in participating in the WIC program at your market, contact NMFMA at 1-888-983-4400 or dmiller@farmersmarketsnm.org.

Nutrition Education Resources
Learn about the nutritional value of many fresh fruits and vegetables found at New Mexico farmers' markets, as well as how to prepare them, by downloading our nutrition brochures in English and Spanish. Choose the fruits and vegetables in which you are most interested for yourself, a friend or a family member. Enjoy, and get healthy with fresh, locally grown market produce!