Family Market Day promotes Bridge card use at farmers markets

Oakland County Health Division and the Healthy Oakland Partnership (HOP) are promoting Oakland County farmers markets that accept SNAP/Bridge cards with two events. They will host their fifth annual Family Market Day events on Wednesday, July 24, from 2 to 6 p.m. at Lathrup Village Farmers Market, 27400 Southfield Road in Lathrup Village; and Saturday, Aug. 24, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Oakland County Farmers Market, 2350 Pontiac Lake Road in Waterford. "Farmers markets that accept EBT cards increase access to affordable fresh fruits and vegetables for low-income residents," said Kathy Forzley, Health Division manager/health officer, "This helps families eat healthier on a budget and increases sales for local farmers." There will be $5 free produce coupons for residents who make a SNAP/Bridge card purchase at one of the Family Market Day events. In addition, there will be prizes, yoga, Zumba, fun activities for children and families, and free recipe samples. This year HOP also supported local farmers markets in efforts to apply for SNAP/bridge card acceptance by providing technical assistance and training for market managers. Currently, there are six markets in Oakland County that accept SNAP/Bridge card benefits. HOP is working to increase that number countywide. The Health Division, under the leadership of County Executive L. Brooks Patterson, started HOP to bring together local partners with the goal to promote healthy eating and physical activity among Oakland County residents. For additional information, visit http://www.oakgov.com/health/Pages/initiatives/HOP/default.aspx. Published: Mon, Jul 22, 2013