We participate in the EBT/FoodShare Program
We are genuinely excited to share that the Janesville Farmers’ Market actively participates in the EBT/FoodShare program.
At our market, we are passionate about connecting the community with locally grown and raised products. We understand the importance of fostering a healthy lifestyle, and we want to ensure that these wholesome options are within reach for all individuals.
We believe that good nutrition should be accessible to everyone, regardless of age, income level, or circumstances.
FoodShare represents Wisconsin’s implementation of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the federal initiative previously recognized as food stamps.
Individuals enrolled in FoodShare receive a Quest card, commonly referred to as an EBT card (Electronic Benefits Transfer), which operates much like a debit card.
Our farmers’ market is equipped with a machine at the Info Booth specifically designed to facilitate EBT transactions, ensuring accessibility for FoodShare participants.
You have the flexibility to use your EBT at any vendor’s booth offering a variety of items such as bakery goods, fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, dairy products, edible plant seedlings, pickles, jams, and more. It’s important to note that EBT cannot be utilized for the purchase of non-food items, such as flowers or crafts, nor can they be used for hot foods served at food carts.
- Take your Quest or EBT card to the Info Booth and ask to do an EBT transaction. The market has an EBT card reader where you will swipe your card and enter your PIN.
- Decide how much you want to withdraw from your account, and the market staff will give you market tokens in exchange. Our tokens do not expire.
- Use tokens at any JFM vendor that sells SNAP/EBT-eligible products.
If you don’t have FoodShare benefits but think you may qualify, you can apply online. For FoodShare application assistance, call 877-FOOD-365 (877-366-3635) or visit GetAQuestCard.org.
The Farmers’ Market Nutrition Programs, catering to WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) and seniors, provide annual one-time food benefits to qualifying participants. These benefits come in the form of checks that can be redeemed at local farmers’ markets from June through October. The checks are specifically intended for the purchase of fresh fruits, vegetables, and fresh cut herbs.
It’s essential to note that this program operates independently of FoodShare. Eligible participants can directly redeem their checks at approved vendors at the farmers’ market.
Please be aware that not all vendors at the DCFM (Downtown Farmers’ Market) accept FMNP checks. To identify participating vendors, look for a yellow sign displayed at their market stall.
Learn more about the Senior and WIC Farmers Market Nutrition Program.
