Grow your garden with 3SquaresVT to put fresh food on the table all season long
Vermont Business Magazine Signs of spring are appearing across the state, which means it’s time to think about which fruits, vegetables, and herbs to grow this season. Vermonters can buy seeds and seedlings that produce edible foods with 3SquaresVT benefits. 3SquaresVT is Vermont’s name for the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides eligible people monthly benefits to help pay for groceries.
3SquaresVT can be used at more than 600 retailers and 40 farmers’ markets across the state, many of which sell seeds and seedlings come springtime. Benefits can be used to buy seeds and plants at any retailer or farmers’ market that accepts EBT cards, which are mailed to 3SquaresVT participants once they enroll in the program. At most farmers' markets, shoppers with 3SquaresVT can use a program called Crop Cash to double their dollars and buy produce, seeds, and plants – and even get some gardening tips from expert farmers and growers.
"Growing your own food does more than provide fresh vegetables,” said Vermont Garden Network Executive Director, Michelle Gates. “It teaches people how things grow and connects them to our food system in a way that can promote positive systems change for better individual and community health. Gardening can lead to healthier lifestyles for people of all ages and backgrounds."
“Each month, 3SquaresVT successfully supports over 70,000 Vermonters by reducing hunger, while keeping millions of dollars in our local communities,” said Lechelle-Antonia Gray, Outreach Manager at Hunger Free Vermont. “Shopping with 3SquaresVT benefits sends those dollars to local food retailers who create jobs in the community, and local farmers who produce food for our community. It’s a win-win.”
1 in 10 Vermonters receive 3SquaresVT benefits, but many more are eligible. Everyone who is eligible to receive 3SquaresVT benefits will get them with an approved application, and there are enough benefits for everyone who qualifies. Visit Vermont Food Help to learn more about 3SquaresVT and how to apply: vermontfoodhelp.com.
About Hunger Free Vermont: Hunger Free Vermont is a statewide nonprofit organization that works with state agencies and community groups to develop sustainable hunger solutions. Since 1993 Hunger Free Vermont’s outreach programs and advocacy have substantially enhanced Vermont’s nutrition safety net and increased access to nutritious foods. www.hungerfreevt.org
About Vermont Community Garden Network: The Vermont Community Garden Network’s mission is to cultivate well-being by helping people of all ages access resources to grow food, build confidence and connect with each other. The Vermont Community Garden Network is an excellent resource for tips on growing food, or finding a community garden near you. vcgn.org
Source: April 11, 2023 (South Burlington, Vermont) – Hunger Free Vermont
