Shopping at the farmers market isn’t just about fresh, local food—it’s also a fantastic way to stretch your budget, especially if you use SNAP, Fresh Match, or Senior and WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) food benefits. These programs help make high-quality, nutritious foods more accessible while also supporting small-scale farmers in our community.
SNAP & Fresh Match: Doubling Your Grocery Dollars
Did you know your SNAP benefits can go even further at the Historic Manassas Farmers Market? By using your EBT card at the market information tent on Thursdays or Saturdays, you can receive “Train Station” SNAP Tokens to spend on eligible groceries. Even better, for every dollar you spend in SNAP tokens, you’ll get a matching dollar in Virginia Fresh Match tokens—up to $40 per market, per week!
That means if you were to use your match benefits every week of the market season, that’s an extra $1,160 in fresh produce. Even if you only used it once a month, that extra $280 worth of produce could be canned or frozen to extend your produce into the winter months. These matching tokens can be used exclusively on fresh fruits and vegetables, including seeds and plants that grow food. It’s a fantastic way to stretch your grocery budget while stocking up on seasonal, nutritious, farm-fresh food.
Senior & WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP)
In addition to SNAP, the market also accepts vouchers from the Senior and WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP). Eligible seniors and WIC participants can receive $50 in vouchers from June through November to spend on fresh produce and herbs at approved vendors. This not only helps you access wholesome, local foods, but also directly supports small-scale farmers in the community. Whether you're shopping with SNAP, Fresh Match, or SFMNP benefits, the farmers market offers an affordable and healthy alternative to traditional grocery stores—putting fresh food on your table and dollars back into the local economy.
Stretch Your Dollar Even Further
One great way to stretch your food benefits or money is by buying in bulk—especially when fruits and vegetables are in peak season. Purchasing larger quantities often comes with a lower price per pound, and any extras can be preserved at home by canning, freezing, or drying for later use. Don’t hesitate to chat with vendors, many are happy to offer discounts on “seconds” (produce that’s slightly bruised or imperfect) or give deals on items near the end of the market day. It’s a smart, budget-friendly way to stock your pantry while supporting local farms.
Another great way to save money is by planning your meals ahead of time and bringing a shopping list to the market. Having a list helps you stay focused, avoid impulse buys, and make sure you’re only purchasing what you know you’ll use. Pairing your list with flexible meal planning, based on what’s in season or on sale, can help you get the most value from your benefits while cutting down on food waste.
Dietitian Tips for Maximizing Your Benefits Budget
- Grow Your Own: Plants like herbs, cherry tomatoes, peppers, and lettuces do well in containers and are perfect for small spaces like patios and balconies
- Use It All: Talk to vendors on how to utilize the whole food- ways to store, prep, and cook to reduce waste and try new foods
- Check Your Pantry: Look at the foods you already have at home before market days- plan meals around what you already have and what is in season
- Consider Alternatives: Swapping out items in a recipe like collards for kale can help with seasonal availability and saving money, especially if a sale is going on
By Brooke Wiseman, MS, RDN, LDN, a Registered Dietitian with a Master’s in Sustainable Food Systems.
