Montana Department of Public Health Transition to Digital Farmers Market Program
The Montana Department of Public Health & Human Services (DPHHS) has announced a significant update to the Farm Direct Program, transitioning it to an electronic platform for the upcoming 2025 farmers’ market season. This change marks the end of outdated paper voucher systems, streamlining the process for both participants and farmers.
The revamped program, now called the Electronic Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (eFMNP), will enable direct electronic payments to vendors, eliminating the manual redemption of paper vouchers. "We’re excited to modernize our program while ensuring that families and farmers can participate," said Lacy Little, Director of the Montana WIC Program.
As part of this state-administered federal nutrition initiative, authorized farmers can accept benefits at farmers’ markets, roadside stands, or their own farms. Each summer, approximately 110 farmers participate, making fresh, local fruits and vegetables more accessible to WIC-eligible families, who will receive $30 in benefits per eligible person. Notably, benefits are allocated per individual rather than per household, which allows a mother with two children to receive $90 during the summer.
The eFMNP runs from June 1 to October 31 each year, with local agencies like Gallatin County WIC and Missoula WIC participating. Around 3,200 families currently benefit from the program, emphasizing its importance in ensuring access to healthy food sources for women, infants, and children across Montana.
For those interested in learning more about eligibility and participation, resources and contact information for local agencies are available at the DPHHS website. The program aims not just to provide nutrition, but also access to vital health and social services, nurturing families during critical stages of growth and development.
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