March/April Beans for Bags Spotlight: VegRX Jefferson County Farmers Market
Supporting Healthy Families with VegRx: A Partnership for Food Security
The Jefferson County Farmers Market (JCFM) is proud to partner with Jefferson Healthcare and the Port Townsend Food Co-op to provide food security and nutrition through the VegRx program. This initiative supports income-qualifying children (ages 0-18) by offering a $20 monthly VegRx prescription for fresh fruits and vegetables at local farmers markets. Families receive this prescription during Well Child checks at Jefferson Healthcare, beginning in June and lasting while supplies last. By empowering children to choose their own fruits and veggies at the markets, VegRx helps improve both child and family health, while addressing food security in our community. Learn more about the program at: https://jcfmarkets.org/food-access.
A Success Story: Healthy Choices for Families
In 2024, the VegRx program made a significant impact, with 119 children participating and bringing home fresh, seasonal produce from the Port Townsend and Chimacum farmers markets. One parent shared,
"My child loves being able to pick out the fruit and veggies they want to eat at the market. Their favorites this year are carrots, cucumbers, and, of course, blueberries. VegRx has encouraged our kids to eat more fresh produce while giving our family the means to choose healthy food. We are so grateful for the support we get from VegRx."
Looking Ahead: Exciting Changes for 2025
In 2025, JCFM is excited to announce the reopening of the Port Townsend Wednesday Farmers Market! From June through September, the market will be held on Wednesdays from 3-6pm in Uptown on Tyler Street. This mid-week market will provide another opportunity for community members to connect with local farms and stock up on fresh, healthy food.
Building a Stronger Community
In 2024, JCFM’s food access programs, including VegRx, served over 1,200 individuals and households with low incomes. These programs collectively helped bring $126,000 worth of fresh, farm-grown food to local tables, bolstering food security and supporting Jefferson County farms. By prioritizing food access, JCFM continues to ensure that fresh, nutritious food is accessible to everyone in our community.