Squamish Savings has stepped up for the second year in a row to revive a charitable initiative bringing nutritious produce to low-income families after the provincial government announced it was pulling its funding in 2010.
Thanks to a $15,000 donation, up from the $10,000 the financial institution provided last year, the program will be maintained.
"Supporting low-income families, healthy eating and a more sustainable system of agriculture is an excellent opportunity for the community," said Farmers' Market manager Carolyn Morris.
The program offers a weekly coupon package to low-income families, pregnant mothers and single mothers who partake in a skill-building course on healthy eating provided by Sea to Sky Community Services. To be part of the program, they need to attend two of the courses and cooking groups.
The coupons can be redeemed at the Squamish Farmers' Market and can be spent on B.C.-grown fruits, vegetables, dairy, eggs, meat, fish, nuts, and fresh-cut herbs.
The present funding allows for 55 families to participate, some from last year's list and some added from the Healthy Pregnancy Outreach Program, during this year's market season.
"I think it's fantastic because it supports so many great initiatives at the same time - supporting farmers directly, making healthy food available for families who might not be able to afford it, bringing new faces to the Farmers' Market and it boosts the local economy," Morris said.
"It's a win-win-win-win."
Donations for the program can be made though Sea to Sky Community Services.
