How do I use Fresh Bucks?

1. Find the market’s information booth.
2. Tell them how much you would like to spend, then swipe your Hoosier Works card.
3. Fresh Bucks will match up to $20 of what you plan to spend.
4. You will receive checks to spend at the market with Fresh Bucks approved produce vendors

Do I get Fresh Bucks loaded onto my Hoosier Works card?

No.  You must have a balance on your Hoosier Works card in order to receive Fresh Bucks checks when you arrive at the participating farmers market.  

What can I buy with Fresh Bucks?

Fresh Bucks can be used to purchase fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices, tree nuts, and seedlings for edible plants.

Where can I use Fresh Bucks? Which markets participate?

Check out the locations page for participating markets hours and locations.

Can I only spend $20 of SNAP at the market?

No, you are welcome to spend as much or as a little of your SNAP benefits as you like, however we can only match up to $20 of Fresh Bucks. SNAP tokens must be spent at the market you receive them at.  Fresh Bucks can be used at any markets with participating Fresh Bucks produce vendors (look for signage).  

What vendor booths will accept Fresh Bucks?

Fresh Bucks can be used to purchase any eligible product at the market.  Look for the Fresh Bucks signs or just ask the vendor if they will accept them.

How can I get more information or outreach materials about Fresh Bucks?

Contact the Nutrition Incentive Program Manager at FreshBucks@MarionHealth.org.

Can I buy meat, eggs, bread, jams, relishes, or dairy products with my Fresh Bucks?

No, you can only purchase fresh fruit, fresh vegetables, herbs, spices, seeds and seedlings for edible plants with your Fresh Bucks checks; however, the SNAP tokens that you receive can be spent on any SNAP eligible products.

Why do I get two different kinds of currencies?

We want the farmers to get paid instantly and for the ease of tracking Fresh Bucks distribution and redemption, we utilize a check process. Because SNAP is a federal program we have to continue utilizing the token process in order for the markets to track distribution and redemption of SNAP dollars. 

Do the farmers get paid?

Yes, the farmers will directly deposit the checks into their bank accounts.  They must be approved vendors by completing an application and receiving an approved stamp that must be on all checks before depositing.  

How often can I use the Fresh Bucks program?

You can receive Fresh Bucks each week that you go to a market.  You do not need to go to the same market each week; however, you must spend all tokens at the market from where you received them.  Most tokens have the logo of the market you received them at.

Will Fresh Bucks be available all season?

Yes, Fresh Bucks will be available at participating markets through summer and winter season markets.

What if I have extra Fresh Bucks left over?

Your Fresh Bucks checks are valid throughout the market season. You may use them at the same market on a different day.  Fresh Bucks checks do expire at the end of year each season.  Be sure to check the expiration date on the checks.