Media Release

ALACHUA COUNTY, FL - The Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (FDACS), Bureau of State Markets, will be conducting training sessions for the Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) at the Alachua County Extension Office (2800 NE 39^th Ave., Gainesville), on Tuesday, February 9, 2010 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. and again on Wednesday, February 10, 2010 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. 

This program has increased sales for growers selling at the farmers' markets and is required before you can accept FMNP coupons.  All farmers who are interested in selling their produce at retail markets are encouraged to attend.  There is no fee or program cost for this training. 

For more information, call FDACS at 800-357-4273. 

The Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) provides participants with coupons that can be used to purchase locally grown, fresh Florida fruits and vegetables. This produce can be purchased at authorized community farmers' markets from April 1 through July 31, 2010.  

Under guidelines applicable to both programs, only fresh fruits and vegetables grown in Florida or within 50 miles of the farmers' market may be purchased with the coupons.  Coupons may be used to purchase a wide variety of approved commodities.

This program benefits farmers by expanding the base of consumers who shop at community farmers' markets.   It also benefits consumers who can easily purchase locally grown fresh produce using their program coupons.  Fresh fruits and vegetables are important to good health, and these programs enable participants to conveniently purchase nutritious products that enhance their diet.     

 All Extension Programs and Services are open to all without regard to race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin or handicap.  For persons requiring special accommodations, please contact the Extension office at (352) 955-2402 (voice) or TDD/TYY (352) 955-2406 or at the Alachua County Extension Service, 2800 NE 39^th Avenue, Gainesville, FL  32609.  Please contact the Extension Office at least five working days prior to the program so that proper consideration may be given to the request.