Winter Farmers Markets Helps Address Food Insecurity
Wakefield, RI – November 26, 2019
The Thundermist Health Center Winter Farmers Market includes an innovative program to address food insecurity. Vouchers will be available for the free purchase of $10 in fresh fruits and vegetables.
Vouchers will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. There will be 50 vouchers available at each event. Vouchers are redeemable at any 2019-2020 Thundermist Winter Farmers Market (November 2019 to June 2020).
The first market will be held November 26, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. From December to June, the Winter Farmers Markets will be held on the third Tuesday of every month, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Thundermist hosts the markets at 450 Clinton Street, Woonsocket. Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island generously sponsors all Winter Farmers Markets.
“Many patients in Woonsocket struggle with food insecurity,” said Jeanne LaChance, president/CEO. “There are financial and transportation barriers to our patients accessing fresh, healthy foods. Our partnership with Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island is helping to address this important issue that impacts our patients’ health and well-being.”
In addition, when people use Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to purchase fruits and vegetables at the market they receive a 100% match. This means their buying ability is doubled.
The November 26 market will include traditional fall harvest items including squash, turnip, and sweet potato.
Thundermist Health Center is a full-service primary care provider with dental and behavioral health services. The non-profit community health center aims to improve the health of patients and communities by delivering exceptional health care, removing barriers to that care, and advancing healthy lifestyles. Thundermist has locations in West Warwick, Woonsocket, and South County. The organization cares for patients regardless of insurance and ability to pay. In 2018, Thundermist cared for more than 48,000 patients.