Program encourages WIC participants to buy produce at farmers markets

From WOOD COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT

Families who participate in the Women, Infants and Children program through Wood County Health Department are eligible to receive $20 in coupons to shop for produce at local farmers markets.

This is the third year for the Farmers Market Nutrition Program offered by Wood County WIC. Pregnant, postpartum and breastfeeding women and children 6 months or older who are participating in WIC are eligible to receive the one-time, $20 benefit to purchase fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs from authorized farmers until Oct. 31. Coupons will be given to WIC participants on a first-come, first-served basis.

WIC participation improves the length of pregnancy and birth weight, improves the diets of women and children and reduces late fetal deaths. WIC children are better immunized, have better vocabulary and are more likely to have a regular source of health care. Children ages 2-4 who participate in WIC are also less likely to be obese.

WIC staff will be at the downtown farmers market in Bowling Green on Aug. 14 to share program information. Recipe ideas using fresh produce are available at Wood County WIC, located at 639 S. Dunbridge Road, Bowling Green.

If you are interested in becoming an authorized FMNP farmer or want to learn more about the program, call Wood County WIC at 419-354-9661.

The mission of Wood County Health Department is to prevent disease, promote healthy lifestyles and protect the health of everyone in Wood County. Our Community Health Center provides comprehensive medical services for men, women and children. We welcome all patients, including uninsured or underinsured clients, regardless of their ability to pay, and we accept most third-party insurance. For more information, visit WoodCountyHealth.org