Pennsylvania Expands Farmers Market Program to Fight Hunger

By Blake Jackson

Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding and WIC Bureau Director Sally Zubairu-Cofield recently highlighted the importance of the Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) during a visit to the Boalsburg Farmers Market.

The program is designed to help low-income seniors and families purchase fresh, locally grown produce from participating farmers markets and farm stands across the state.

FMNP provides vouchers that eligible participants can use to buy fruits and vegetables directly from local farmers. During the visit, Home Nursing Agency WIC program director Tracy Kelley and State Representative Paul Takac also joined officials to emphasize how the program is implemented at the community level to support families in need.

“For the 1.7 million Pennsylvanians who struggle with hunger, there is sometimes gap between the abundance around them and the food they can easily access and afford,” Secretary Redding said.

“The Farmers Market Nutrition Program is one of a full menu of state support, connecting the bounty of healthy food Pennsylvania farmers produce with those who struggle daily to afford it. The Shapiro Administration is committed to increasing opportunities both farmers and struggling Pennsylvanians to thrive today and in the long run.”

Food insecurity remains a concern across Pennsylvania. According to Feeding Pennsylvania, one in eight residents may not know where their next meal will come from. Limited access to affordable, nutritious food can increase the risk of chronic health conditions, while healthier options like fresh produce are often less accessible to low-income households.

“As a former WIC mom, I know how meaningful these extra dollars can be for families. I encourage all eligible mothers, older Pennsylvanians, and families to take advantage of their Farmers Market Nutrition Program benefits,” said WIC Director Sally Zubairu-Cofield.

“This is a great opportunity to buy local, bring home fresh fruits and vegetables, and connect with the farmers who grow our food. By trying something new and enjoying Pennsylvania’s harvest, we’re nourishing our families today while investing in healthier communities for the future of the Commonwealth.”

In 2025, Centre County issued 7,751 FMNP checks, benefiting 1,063 seniors and 812 WIC families, with more than $35,000 spent on fresh food from local farmers. Across Pennsylvania, voucher redemptions totaled over $3.9 million, directly supporting participating farmers.

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