Southern Illinois Link Hub
Food Works has partnered with Experimental Station to be the Southern Illinois Link Hub and to offer SNAP support grants and funding for the Link Match program to farmers markets throughout Southern Illinois.
SNAP Support
Food Works helps administer the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) at farmers markets in Southern Illinois, and was the first to pilot a double value incentive program that provides a $1-for-$1 match, up to $25 per swipe, on all SNAP purchases at the market. Food Works currently offers area farmers markets through the Southern Illinois Link Hub:
• Free technical assistance for application process and program implementation
• Stipend for a SNAP Coordinator at the market
• Matching funds for Link Match Coupons
• Training and resources
Applying to accept SNAP benefits is easier than ever with technical assistance from Food Works. We can help markets apply for an FNS number with the USDA, free equipment, and waived transaction fees. We also can provide resources and training for record keeping, marketing, and volunteer coordination. Markets can access SNAP Support Stipends as compensation for added labor and marketing expenses associated with operating the program.
Link Match
To help low income families stretch their food dollars further, farmers' markets can also access funding to operate a Link Match double coupon program. The Link Match program gives shoppers a $1-for-$1 match, up to $25 per swipe (with unlimited swipes), for their SNAP transactions with coupons to use on fresh fruits and vegetables. This program has been shown to increase SNAP sales at markets, and increase the bottom line for farmers. Accepting SNAP at a farmers market is a win-win-win for:
• Low income families who can buy fresh local fruits and vegetables;
• Farmers who can access a new customer base for produce sales;
• The overall health of the community.
Click here for the brochure that lists all Link Supporting markets & stores.
Thursdays 3-6pm, May-October, Benton City Park, 414 W Hudelson St, Benton, IL 6281
Carbondale Community Farmers Market (winter)Saturdays 10am-1pm December-March, University Mall, Theater Entrance, 1237 E Main St, Carbondale IL 62901
Du Quoin State Fair Farmers MarketTuesdays 3-6pm, June-August, The Cattle Barns, 655 Executive Dr, Du Quoin, IL 62832
Elverado Farmers MarketFridays 3-6pm, June-October, Corner of Coal Road and Rte 51 South, Elkville, IL 62932
Humpday Farmers MarketWednesdays 3-6pm, April-October, 2421 W Main St, Carbondale, IL 62901
LEAF Food HubOn-line, all year long (ordering: Fridays 12pm-Tuesdays 8pm, pickup/delivery Thur afternoons)
Marion Farmers MarketSaturdays 6am-12pm, April-November, Wednesdays 7am-11am through October, 507 W Main St, Marion, IL 62959
F.R.E.S.H. Farmers MarketThursdays 8:30am-12:30pm, July-October, East Side Health District, 638 N 20th St, East St Louis, IL 62205
Vine Street Market at O'Fallon StationSaturdays 8am-12pm, May-October, 212 E 1st St, O'Fallon, IL 62269
Food Works Mobile Farmers MarketVisit mobilefarmersmarket.us for more information and current mobile market locations
We will be working with other markets throughout Southern Illinois to support them with the process. If you are interested in learning more about these and other opportunities for your market, please complete the contact form on this page and we can set up a time to discuss details. We look forward to the opportunity to work together to help Southern Illinois shop healthy!
