Aug. 26, 2014 – A new program will be implemented at the University of Utah’s seventh annual farmers market that will make each dollar stretch a little further for students and customers using food stamps. The market begins Thursday, Aug. 28, and runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the Tanner Plaza, between the Union and Student Services buildings.

In 2012, the University of Utah Farmers Market began accepting food stamps thanks to a grant from Utahns Against Hunger. The new Double Your Dollars program allows those using food stamps and any U students to purchase $1 tokens and receive double the amount back. For example, if a student purchases $5 worth of tokens, that student will receive $10 worth of tokens back. These can then be used to purchase produce and eligible prepared and packaged food, such as bread and salsa.

The Double Your Dollars program was developed by students and is funded by a Sustainable Campus Initiative Fund grant, which is supported by student fees and is available to all students, faculty and staff who wish to engage in a sustainability focused project on campus.

“By making tokens available to students as well as food stamp users, we hope to reduce any stigma associated with them and at the same time acknowledge that there are people who are not eligible to receive food stamps who still need financial assistance in purchasing healthy, wholesome foods and produce,” said Analeigh Sanderson, senior in environmental and sustainable studies and modern dance, who applied for the grant.

The University of Utah Farmers Market is open on Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., through Oct. 9 and is open to the campus community as well as the public. The market has a new theme each week. For more information, click here.

University of Utah Farmers Market Schedule:

Sustainability Day, Aug. 28 — Learn about the U’s recycling system, the Sustainable Campus Initiative Fund and the U Community Solar program.

Bike to the U, Sept. 4 — The fourth annual Bike to the U Day features bicycle-themed vendors. Bring your bike for a free lock when you register it with Campus Police.

Chef’s Choice, Sept. 11 — University Dining Services will have chef demonstrations using produce found at the market.

Buzz About Bees, Sept. 18 — The U of U Beekeepers Association will offer honey and products from the campus hives and provide information about beekeeping and how to grow a bee-friendly garden.

Happy Pets, Healthy People, Sept. 25 — The market will feature local animal adoption groups as well as pet-themed vendors.

Cooking on an Adventure, Oct. 2 — Learn about lightweight foods that fit in a backpack for your next backpacking or camping trip.

Sustainable Sweets, Oct. 9 — Local chocolate, pastry and fresh fruit vendors will bring a sweet end to the University of Utah Farmers Market.