Amid uncertainty, we can innovate.

We trust them. We like them. We buy from them. You should too.

Every Tuesday and Friday this December, we will feature all of the local farms and farmer cooperatives around Arizona who helped us deliver $36,000 worth of fresh, high-quality produce to over 1,200 seniors in need through the AZ Farmers Market Nutrition Program (AZFMNP). This special series is our way of showcasing and thanking them, so be sure to share and give them a follow!

INNOVATION: Bulk purchasing was a new component of the AZFMNP program this year. Previously in Arizona, $30 worth of farmers market checks or coupons were offered to eligible seniors who participate in CSFP, a monthly commodity food box offered by local food banks. Amid the uncertainty of COVID-19, we had to make a quick change in our coupon model. We decided to bulk-purchase and deliver thousands of pounds of fresh produce directly to food banks and senior housing sites.

This adaptation ensured that seniors unable to attend farmers markets were still able to receive fresh produce from their local farmers. It was impactful to support farmers across the state during October and November, which are typically leaner, transitional months as summer crops wind down due to frost and changing seasons, and winter crops begin to mature.

We trust these farms and are so grateful for their partnership and their hard work. We buy from them, and you should too!

Thanks for following along!#azfmnp