In 2009, the Fair Food Network introduced a program called Double Up Food Bucks (DUFB). This program doubles the value of federal nutrition assistance spent at participating markets and grocery stores, helping people bring home more locally grown fruits and vegetables. The wins are three-fold: low-income consumers eat more healthy food, local farmers gain new customers and make more money, and more food dollars stay in the local economy.
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Since DUFB was created, most farmers markets in West Michigan have made the program available to their customers. This program has helped participants to stretch their food dollars while increasing the amount of fresh, Michigan grown produce that they can purchase. Recently, SpartanNash teamed up with Fair Food Network to expand the reach of DUFB in our community by piloting a program to introduce DUFB into two Grand Rapids Family Fare stores. These stores include the Family Fare in Fulton Heights at 1415 Fulton St. E, Grand Rapids and the Family Fare on Leonard at 1225 Leonard St. NE, Grand Rapids. Now Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) eligible members of our community can access fresh, wholesome fruits and vegetables at a discounted cost at select area Family Fare stores from now through the end of 2015.
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With the DUFB program, a SNAP recipient paying for any fruits and vegetables with their EBT/Bridge Card + yes Rewards Card earns points, one point for every dollar up to $20 per day, on their yes card. These DUFB points are redeemable (1 point = $1) starting the next day at select Family Fare stores on any Michigan produce purchased through the end of the year with the use of the yes card. This partnership will make the DUFB program easier for customers to use, ensuring that more families in our community can access healthy foods while supporting Michigan farmers.
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Other locations where you can use DUFB include the YMCA Veggie Van, Fulton Street Farmers Market, New City Urban Farm, Southeast Area Farmers Market, Holland Farmers Market, and the Downtown Market. To find more locations near you, click here!
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