Illinois SNAP Users Can Double Benefits At QC Farmers’ Market

Those that use the Illinois Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) can now get extra fruit and vegetables at the QC Farmers' Market in Rock Island this summer. This will be the first area farmers' market that will accept SNAP payments too.

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In a press release on Wednesday, officials from the QC Farmers’ Market announced the immediate availability of matching funds for customers using Illinois SNAP. Customers that use Illinois SNAP will be able to double their benefits to buy fresh local fruits and vegetables.

QC Farmers' Market

Starting in May, the QC Farmers’ Market became the first area Illinois farmers' market to accept SNAP payments at their Saturday market, which is held 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Schwiebert Park in Rock Island.

Ian Forslund, owner of Mad Farmers’ Garden and President of QC Farmers’ Market said in the release,

“We are very excited to offer Quad Citizens an opportunity to get fresh healthful foods with their SNAP benefits. All of the QC Farmers Market vendors are able to accept SNAP monies, for people to buy locally produced fruits, vegetables, meat, eggs, dairy, baked goods, and food-producing plants."

QC Farmers' Market

Officials said starting on May 14, Illinois customers will be able to Link Match their SNAP benefits. Every Link dollar will be matched with vouchers to buy extra fruits and vegetables, doubling the amount of food an Illinois SNAP holder may buy.

Robin Barnhouse, owner of Broken Shovel Farms and vendor at QC Farmers’ Market commented,

“Right now, Illinois SNAP beneficiaries are not eligible for Link Match dollars anywhere in the Quad Cities. We are excited to offer Illinois residents with more limited means this benefit.”

QC Farmers' Market

Link Match dollars will be available at the QC Farmers’ Market, Saturdays May – October, 8-12 at Schwiebert Park in Rock Island.

QC Farmers’ Market is a cooperative of farmers and food producers local to the Quad Cities area. When you buy from QC Farmers' Market, you’re buying directly from the producer, and all products are homegrown and handmade, without exception.

You can find more information and learn more about the QC Farmers' Market at Schwiebert Park in Rock Island at www.qcfarmersmarket.online.

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