DEARBORN – The Dearborn Farmer and Artisan’s Market now accepts Bridge Cards, market officials recently announced.
Bridge Card users must have the card with them. Shoppers can determine how much they would like to spend and get tokens or receipts equal to that amount. Shoppers then can use the tokens at any participating vendors to purchase any eligible food product.
Vendors cannot give change, but will work with shoppers to make sure they get their money’s worth. Tokens don’t expire, so if shoppers don’t use them all the same day, they are redeemed and can be used on future market visits.
“Our vendors provide fresh, local food selections for all of our area’s residents,” market manager Joan Reed said. “It makes sense that improving access to seasonal, nutritious food will help those most in need.”
Across Michigan, a group called the Michigan Farmers Markets Food Assistance Partnership, is working to help low-income consumers connect with their local farmers. The group received a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farmers Market Promotion Program aimed at supporting the use of Bridge Cards at Michigan farmers markets.
The Dearborn market is behind the Bryant Library, 22100 Michigan Ave. It is open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Fridays until Oct. 29.
For more information call Reed at (313) 584-6100.