The B.C. Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program is operating in more than 90 communities throughout the province, reaching families, seniors and pregnant people from more than 8,500 households.

Delivered by the B.C. Association of Farmers’ Markets (BCAFM), the B.C. Farmers’ Market Nutrition Coupon Program is a healthy-eating initiative that strengthens local food systems throughout the province by providing an additional source of income for B.C. farmers during the market season.

With funding from the province, the program provides coupons to community partners supporting people and families with lower incomes. Coupons can be used to buy fresh, nutritious and locally grown food at more than 100 participating B.C. farmers’ markets, including 22 in the Kootenays such as Cranbrook Farmers’ Market, Fernie Mountain Market, Agri-Park Farmers’ Market in Invermere and Kimberley Farmers’ Market.

This year, the province is providing the program with $4.25 million. Households enrolled in the program can receive as much as $27 a week in coupons to use at participating farmers’ markets for as long as 16 weeks. The coupons can be used to buy fresh produce, nuts, eggs, dairy products, herbs, vegetable and fruit plants, honey, meat and fish.

To receive the coupons, participants register with community partners, which distribute the coupons to those eligible. However, the 2025 program is currently at capacity for this year and is no longer taking applications.

“The B.C. Association of Farmers’ Markets is grateful and proud to have delivered this beloved program for many, many years,” said Heather O’Hara, executive director, BCAFM. “Through the program, we reach diverse people and communities in all corners of the province every year. In 2025, we know people want to taste B.C. like never before at our incredible farmers’ markets.”

“As the weather warms up and more people take advantage of British Columbia’s amazing farmers’ markets, we are helping people and families on lower incomes access fresh and nutritious foods grown in their communities,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health.

“The Farmers’ Market Nutrition Coupon Program promotes healthy eating and gives people an opportunity to connect with and support local farmers and producers.”

Farmers’ markets are a central part of many communities in B.C. Every year, they generate more than $232 million for local economies, helping farmers, small businesses and communities thrive. Support for farmers’ markets strengthens local food systems and helps foster the sector’s resilience and self-reliance.

Learn more about local markets participating in the program.

e-KNOW file photo

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