The Fresh to Families Project provides access to fresh, locally grown food for low income families, newly arrived refugees, and at-risk expectant mothers through its community partners at MOSAIC, Circles of Care & Connection, and VCH Healthiest Babies Possible. Each household enrolled in the program is eligible to receive $15/week in fresh food coupons from June- October, which can be spent at farmers markets for produce, meat, eggs, and dairy.

As a registered BC non-profit, Vancouver Farmers’ Markets support small farm production, nourish people and connect neighbours by operating 8 weekly farmers markets throughout Vancouver. The markets support 250 small scale producers and keeps 6,000 acres of BC farmland in production. Each year, the markets feed and nourish over 450,000 people, including low income families and seniors through the Fresh to Families Project. Established in 2016, the Vancouver Farmers’ Markets Fresh to Families Fund is administered at Vancity Community Foundation and supports the Fresh to Families Project. In 2016, Vancouver Farmers’ Markets raised more than $6,500 towards this project.

I was able to buy lots of fresh, organic vegetables. I made a stew for my family, which my children enjoyed even though usually they do not like to eat vegetables.
- Fresh to Families participant, Mosaic Building Blocks Program

One of our youth participants was so excited to be able to buy cheese at the farmers market. Cheese is a luxury item she usually can’t afford.
- Program coordinator, VCH Healthiest Babies Possible

The farmers market reminds me of home – we used to meet our friends at the market, just like I did today. I hope this wonderful program continues.
 -Fresh to Families participant, Mt. Pleasant Early Years Refugee Program