Double Up Indiana, a program offering free fruits and vegetables for SNAP customers, is now underway in Allen County. Double Up provides a $1 for $1 match on all purchases of fresh produce when customers use SNAP (formerly food stamps).
The St. Joe Foundation sponsors Double Up Indiana with support from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, United Way of Allen County, and Parkview Health.
For several years, the Foundation has been matching SNAP purchases, WIC (Women, Infants, Children) vouchers, and Senior vouchers to allow customers to buy more healthy fruits and vegetables. Now, a $500,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture is helping the Foundation expand the program so more Allen County residents can participate.
Currently, Double Up is offered at the Johnnie Mae Farm, 2518 Winter St., Fridays from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Double Up will also be available at all HEAL Farm Markets beginning the week of July 5. HEAL market locations include: McCormick Place, 3005 McCormick Ave., Wednesdays 4:30-6:30 p.m.; Parkview Greenhouse, 1716 Beacon St., Thursdays 4-6 p.m.; and South Side Farmers Market, 3300 Warsaw St., Saturdays 8-noon.