This post is part of Transform Consulting Group’s blog series highlighting federal programs that provide education opportunities and/or youth development services in communities.
Congress established FMNP in 1992 to expand awareness and the use of farmers’ markets by providing fresh, unprepared, locally grown fruits and vegetables to WIC participants. In Indiana, the FMNP is managed by the State Department of Health. Each state that participates in FMNP must submit an annual plan describing how the responsible agency intends to implement, operate, and administer all aspects of its FMNP.
FMNP services also include a nutritional education component. Through local WIC agencies, program participants are encouraged to improve and expand diets by adding fresh fruits and vegetables. Among many other aspects of good nutrition, participants are taught how to properly select, store, and prepare any fruits and vegetables purchased.
The WIC target population are low-income, nutritionally at risk:
- Pregnant women (through pregnancy and up to 6 weeks after birth or after pregnancy ends)
- Breastfeeding women (up to infant’s 1st birthday)
- Non-breastfeeding postpartum women (up to 6 months after the birth of an infant or after pregnancy ends)
- Infants (up to 1st birthday). WIC serves 53 percent of all infants born in the United States
- Children up to their 5th birthday
In fiscal year 2013, $16.548 million was appropriated by Congress and 1.5 million WIC participants received FMNP benefits1. During the same year, 17,713 farmers, 3,322 farmers’ markets, and 2,758 roadside stands were authorized to accept FMNP coupons. Over $13.2 million in revenue to farmers was generated. Click here to find more information about the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program participating state agencies.
The US Federal Government provides billions of dollars in grants every year. Take advantage of the opportunity to use federal dollars to support your cause. Transform Consulting Group has many years experience submitting successful federal grant applications. Contact us today for a free consultation!
