Virginia receives $1M state funding to expand fresh food assistance program
What happened
Virginia Fresh Match received $1 million in state funding to expand its program that helps SNAP customers purchase fresh fruits and vegetables. The program doubles SNAP dollars spent on eligible produce at 150 locations across the state.
From whsv.com
Why it matters
The state investment is aimed at addressing food insecurity, as research by the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank found that 42% of people in Virginia are food insecure. The program helps families manage rising costs by allowing them to stretch their benefits.
Mark O’Brien is the Director of Operations for the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank, which operates in Virginia.
From whsv.com
Who's involved
- Blue Ridge Area Food BankNonprofit organization that conducted research on food insecurity in Virginia.
- VirginiaState providing the $1 million investment for the Fresh Match program.
- HarrisonburgIndependent city where the Harrisonburg Farmers Market participates in the program.
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- Blue Ridge Area Food BankSpeculative
The Blue Ridge Area Food Bank might see increased demand for its food insecurity services due to the program expansion.
- HarrisonburgSpeculative
Harrisonburg might see increased customer volume at local markets participating in the program.
Keep exploring
The entities involved
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Blue Ridge Area Food Bank
American nonprofit organization
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Virginia
state of the United States of America