Working With Rural Producers to Expand EBT in Farmers' Markets: A Case Study in Hardeman County, Tennessee

Area of Science:

• Agricultural economics
• Public health nutrition
• Community food systems

Background:

• Rural populations face disparities in fruit and vegetable consumption, increasing chronic disease risk.
• Farmers' markets offer potential for improved fresh produce access in rural areas.
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) acceptance can enhance food access for low-income rural residents, yet rural markets lag in adoption.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail a case study of an Extension program assisting a rural producer with SNAP EBT application and implementation.
• To identify and address barriers faced by rural producers in accepting SNAP benefits.
• To provide practical guidance for Extension practitioners supporting farmers' market SNAP EBT adoption.

Main Methods:

• Conducted a workshop to educate rural producers on the benefits of accepting SNAP.
• Provided direct, hands-on assistance to a rural producer throughout the SNAP EBT application process.
• Offered support for market implementation and advertising of SNAP EBT services.

Main Results:

• The Extension program successfully guided one rural producer through the SNAP EBT application.
• The case study highlights the producer's navigation of the EBT application and market implementation.
• Identified key challenges and support needs for rural producers regarding SNAP EBT acceptance.

Conclusions:

• Extension programs can effectively support rural producers in overcoming barriers to SNAP EBT acceptance.
• Targeted assistance, including workshops and hands-on help, is crucial for successful implementation.
• Facilitating SNAP EBT at farmers' markets can improve healthy food access for underserved rural communities.