Food Access Programs
Photo Credit: Jason Derrick
Food Access Programs at the BTLT Farmers Market
At Brunswick-Topsham Land Trust, we believe everyone should have access to fresh, local, and healthy food, while also supporting our amazing local farmers and food producers.
That’s why we proudly take part in SNAP, Maine Harvest Bucks, WIC, Maine Senior Farm share, and Bumper Crop food access programs at our Farmers Market at Crystal Spring Farm. All vendors at our Farmers Market take part in these programs
Programs like these help local families stretch their food budgets, make fresh and healthy food more accessible, strengthen Maine’s farming economy, and support our mission of a resilient and connected community.
SNAP/EBT & Maine Harvest Bucks
SNAP, or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, is a federal program that supports families and individuals who are food insecure. Farmers markets across the state of Maine and the United States can become licensed to accept SNAP, which allows SNAP recipient families to access fresh, healthy, and local foods, while also supporting Maine’s small businesses and local economies. Learn more about SNAP by clicking here. SNAP recipients who shop at farmers markets can also get matching dollars, called Maine Harvest Bucks, to spend on fruits and veggies, increasing what they have to spend on healthy foods. How it works:
1. Visit the BTLT Info Booth at the Market.
2. Swipe your SNAP/EBT card to receive:
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- SNAP tokens – Use directly with vendors on any SNAP-eligible food items.
- Maine Harvest Bucks vouchers – Use directly with vendors on fresh fruits, vegetables, and seedlings.
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WIC
WIC benefits can be used directly with approved vendors for fruits and vegetables. Learn more about this program here. WIC-approved vendors at the BTLT Farmers Market who can accept WIC benefits include Six River Farm and Whatley Farm.
Bumper Crop
Bumper Crop is a workplace wellness program that gives employees market vouchers to use on any item at the Market. Employers buy vouchers, employees shop at local markets, everyone benefits! Fresh food, healthy choices, and a stronger local economy. If you’re an employer or employee interested in this program, reach out to the Maine Federation of Farmers Markets. Learn more.
Bumper Crop also functions as a statewide farmers market gift certificate program through the Maine Federation of Farmers Markets. These gift certificates can be used directly with vendors at the BTLT Farmers Market for any food item. You can buy these gift certificates through the Maine Federation of Farmers Markets for use at the BTLT Farmers Market!
Maine Senior Farm Share
Maine seniors who are age and income-eligible for the program can register at the BTLT booth and will receive $50 in vouchers for the season that can be used directly with vendors at the Farmers Market for fresh produce, cut herbs, and honey. Learn more here.
Need help or have questions?
Our Farmers Market staff and volunteers are here to help you navigate SNAP, Maine Harvest Bucks, WIC, or Bumper Crop. Just stop by the BTLT Info Booth at the Market or email us. The BTLT Farmers Market at Crystal Spring Farm takes place on Saturdays from May-October, 8:30am–12:30pm located at 277 Pleasant Hill Road Brunswick, Maine.