A program that doubles the buying power for Kansans receiving federal food assistance is not only helping families eat healthier but also boosting local economies. Recent studies show that for every dollar spent through the Double Up Food Bucks program by a participant in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) at grocery stores, $1.30 is generated for the economy. At farmers markets, farm stands, or mobile markets, that impact increases to $1.60.

Double Up Food Bucks is a nutrition incentive program that matches SNAP benefits dollar-for-dollar, up to $25 per day, when used to buy fruits and vegetables at participating locations. In partnership with several organizations, Kansas and Missouri form the Double Up Heartland Collaborative. Over 800,000 residents in both states rely on federal food assistance through SNAP.

The program provides customers with more buying power, enabling them to purchase more fresh produce, which helps vendors sell perishable items more quickly. Double Up Food Bucks are accepted at numerous farmers markets, farm stands, and grocery stores across Kansas, with a list of participating locations available online.

Erin Bishop, who manages the program in Kansas through K-State Research and Extension, focuses on supporting farmers markets and farm stands, offering training on SNAP regulations to vendors. Bishop noted that markets experience increased foot traffic when Double Up Food Bucks is available, and extension agents across the state help educate residents and vendors about the program. Extension agents also help customers explore new produce, empowering them to feed their families with fresh Kansas-grown items.