Power of Produce, (POP) has made its way to farmers markets across the nation.
Originating in Oregon City Farmers Market in Oregon, market manager Jackie Hammond- Williams created the program in order to empower young children to make healthy eating choices. She also wanted to strengthen and sustain healthy relationships within the community through supporting farmers and cultivating future market supporters.
In this club, kids must register to get two wooden tokens, which equals two dollars to spend on produce items only. Children ages five to twelve can also partake in cooking demos and food sampling.
Clinton’s farmers market adapted the program in 2017 with the help of grants from Hamilton College and Blue Shield. To get the tokens and participate in the club, children must register at the information booth.
The Clinton Farmers Market has numerous produce stands that accept these tokens, such as Pickle Hill Produce and Quarry Brook Farms.
Vendors in Virginia have stated that their produce sales increased 35 percent since collaborating with the POP program. Research also shows that 72 percent of nationwide Power of Produce members have ventured to different kinds of healthy foods, which means more income for local farms and businesses.
By joining the POP organization, parents and market managers hope children learn valuable life skills, such as how to communicate with adults and peers, develop relationships with new people, independence, and improve their economic knowledge.
Join Clinton’s effort in promoting healthy eating by enrolling your child in the Power Of Produce program today at the information booth located towards the front of the market entrance on the green.
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