Washington County WIC at Area Farmers Markets

For Immediate Release: Thursday, June 18, 2015

Washington County WIC (the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children) will be at farmers markets all summer long in Beaverton, Forest Grove, Hillsboro and Tigard, distributing Farm Direct Nutrition dollars to WIC participants.

The Farm Direct Nutrition Program (FDNP) provides families with an additional source of nutritious food as well as education on selecting and preparing fresh produce. FDNP also supports local farmers markets and farmers. Last year, $57,440 in FDNP dollars were spent by WIC participants and paid to local farmers.

This partnership with local markets helps WIC families to share in the bountiful summer harvest and feed their families well. WIC will be providing $20 voucher booklets for each WIC enrolled family member four months old or older, up to $60 per family. At least 2,400 coupons will be issued on a first come, first serve basis at selected farmers markets.

"This time of year is always exciting," says Tara Olson, senior public health dietitian with WIC. "Our WIC families can't wait to visit us at the farmers markets and use their vouchers for tasting the delicious fruits and vegetables grown locally in Oregon."

At the market, people will have the opportunity to talk with WIC staff to find out if they are eligible for WIC services. "Income limits are higher than some people expect," says Olson. "Seventy-seven percent of WIC families are working families."

WIC will be at the following markets:

• Beaverton Farmers Market, located at 12375 SW 5th Street, 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., July 11, July 25 and August 15
• Forest Grove Farmers Market, located at Main Street between 21st and Pacific, 4-7 p.m., July 29 and August 12
• Hillsboro Farmers Market, located at Main Street and 2nd, 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., June 20, June 27, July 18, August 1 and August 22
• Tigard Farmers Market, located at 8777 SW Burnham Street, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., June 28, July 12 and August 2

Washington County serves 19,000 individuals per year at its three WIC locations in Hillsboro, Beaverton and Tigard. The WIC program focuses on nutritional education and support to low-income pregnant women and families with children under five years old. It includes breastfeeding support groups, nutrition education and vouchers for healthful foods available locally.

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