In a significant milestone for food accessibility and public health, the Southwest Florida Food Policy Council, part of the Health and Wellness Coalition, announces the expansion of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to four of Shop Local Production’s farmers’ markets in Fort Myers, Cape Coral and Naples.
Shop Local Productions has undergone the necessary steps to enable SNAP benefits to be accepted at their farmers’ markets, paving the way for a broader system-level change in the community.
“We are excited to support partners coming together, not only to expand access to nutritious, locally sourced food, but also to educate residents about food policy and the importance of accessibility,” said Linda Miller, owner Shop Local Productions.
This initiative represents a critical step in the council and coalition’s long-term commitment to improving access to nutritious, locally sourced food for all residents.
Starting October 2024, the Surfside Farmers Market, located at 2354 Surfside Blvd. in Cape Coral will begin accepting SNAP benefits.
In November 2024, additional markets will join the effort including: Santini Market located at 7205 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach; South Collier Market at FSW located at 7505 Grand Lely Drive., Naples; and St. John Farmer’s Market located at 500 Park Shore Drive., Naples.
For more information about Shop Local Production’s farmers market locations, operating days and how to use SNAP benefits at these markets, visit: www.41markets.com
The Southwest Florida Food Policy Council, a key initiative of the Health and Wellness Coalition of Southwest Florida, is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of residents through policy advocacy, education, and community partnerships aimed at creating a more sustainable food system.
ABOUT THE HEALTH AND WELLNESS COALITION
The Health & Wellness Coalition is a regional network of cross-sector partners dedicated to improving the health and well-being of residents through tackling issues of access to healthcare and mental health services. The goal is to transform Southwest Florida to be among the healthiest communities in the nation by exceeding the 90th percentile for Health Indicators (Length of Life and Quality of Life) by 2040.
Through policy advocacy, education and community partnerships this coalition is moving the needle on critical issues and are identifying opportunities and gaps in our current systems to create a more sustainable pathway for healthcare and mental health.
The Health & Wellness Coalition is supported by Collaboratory. To learn more and get involved, call 239-274-5900 or visit https://www.
