Ashe County Farmers Market
Nestled in the heart of downtown West Jefferson and conveniently located near local dining and shopping establishments, the Ashe County Farmers Market serves as a vibrant hub, showcasing the best of Ashe County. This market is a celebration of local craftsmanship and agriculture, featuring fresh seasonal produce grown by local farmers and juried crafts meticulously crafted by Ashe County artisans. The offerings include a delightful mix of fresh vegetables, fruits, local honey, molasses, maple syrup, meats, and homemade jams and jellies.
Programs Include:
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): Ashe County Farmers Market (ACFM) accepts EBT cards on-site during market hours. Participants can purchase tokens in $1 and $5 denominations, allowing them to acquire a variety of market foods, including baked goods, fruits, veggies, meats, fish, poultry, dairy products, seeds, and plant starts. To facilitate this process, individuals using SNAP benefits can seek assistance from the Market Manager, ensuring seamless access to fresh, locally sourced products. It's important to note that vendors are unable to exchange cash for unspent tokens or provide change, but they are committed to ensuring customers receive full value by enhancing their purchases with additional produce when needed.
**Continuing for 2024 – Ashe County Farmers Market will continue to offer Double Up Food Bucks for SNAP participants. For every dollar spent up to $20.00, the market will provide the same amount. Ex: If you spend $20, you get an extra $20.00 in double up food tokens. **
WIC and Senior Farmer Market Nutrition Program (FMNP): Understanding the importance of incorporating more fresh, local produce into your family diet, the ACFM proudly participates in both the WIC and Senior FMNP programs. Valid vouchers may be spent on local fruits and vegetables at the market through participating vendors. Vendors will not accept vouchers after the valid date on the voucher and are not able to provide any change for your purchase, but will gladly add some additional fruit or veggies to ensure you receive the full value for your voucher.
***Currently we are waiting to hear if we have funds to continue this program for 2024**** (as of 1.20.24)
How will I know which vendors participate?
Not all our vendors participate in the program. Please look for vendors who display the FMNP program poster in their vendor space. These vendors have been trained and approved to participate in these programs.
Where do I get my program vouchers?
- WIC cards are distributed through the WIC program at the Appalachian District Health Department. Distribution typically begins in July to ensure you have your cards in hand when our local produce is in season.
- Senior FMNP vouchers are distributed through the Generations Ashe Center and are distributed in July.