Vendors at the Sycamore Farmers’ Market are seeing new faces each year.
Kishwaukee Health System started a food voucher program in Sycamore in 2012. Since then, vendors at the farmer’s market have accepted vouchers to trade for fruits, vegetables, and herbs. The coupons are distributed throughout different agencies and organizations in the county to promote fresh choices for area families and seniors.
Amber Gerardy is a spokesperson for the Sycamore Chamber of Commerce. She says each year, more people use the vouchers which come in $1, $3, and $5 increments.
“The first year they did this, they released 530 packets. To date, they’ve released 825 packets.”
Kristen Srail with Windy Acres Farms is a vendor at the market.
It's definitely helpful and it brings in a lot of new faces, you know, so they can, and it helps them to afford you know healthy produce."
Sycamore’s Farmers' Market runs through October.
Other area farmers' markets and farm stands are certified to accept the Illinois Link Card. Find participating markets