Bridge card programs promoted at Farmers Market

Oakland County Health Division and the Healthy Oakland Partnership (HOP) are promoting Oakland County farmers markets that accept SNAP/Bridge cards with summer events. They will host their second Family Market Day event of 2013 on 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 participate in the SNAP/Bridge, WIC, or Senior Project Fresh programs and those who make a SNAP/Bridge card purchase at one of the Family Market Day events will receive an additional $5 coupon. Families can also win prizes, and try out yoga, Zumba, fun activities for children, free recipe samples, and health screenings. Inflatable bouncers will be on-site for kids. 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 seven 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: Fri, Aug 23, 2013