Seva Equitable has been selected by the New York City Department of Health & Mental Hygiene to participate in the Health Bucks program for the second year in a row!
Health Bucks are $2 coupons redeemable for fresh fruits and vegetables at NYC farmers’ markets. The program helps make locally grown produce more affordable for New Yorkers and supports neighborhood farmers’ markets and regional growers.
Last year was Seva Equitable’s first year participating in Health Bucks, and it was an important learning experience for our organization. While we were grateful to provide that support, we learned that the amount may not have been sufficient for recipients to use the coupons meaningfully, especially given the cost of produce at some farmers’ markets.
This year, we are applying those lessons to improve our approach. Over the next couple of months, Seva Equitable will focus on more targeted Health Bucks distribution at farmers’ markets, especially for community members who receive and use SNAP benefits. By meeting participants directly at farmers’ markets, we hope to encourage same-day use, provide clearer guidance on how and where to redeem coupons, and help families stretch their food dollars.
We will also spend more time engaging with community members on healthy food choices, seasonal produce, and how Health Bucks can make fresh fruits and vegetables more accessible.
Seva Equitable is committed to improving redemption rates and ensuring that Health Bucks are distributed thoughtfully to those who can benefit most from and use them.
Together, we can continue to make fresh, nutritious food more accessible to all.
👉🏽 Learn More About Health Bucks:
https://www.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/health-bucks.page
Seva Equitable