United Way of Hancock County works with the Hancock County Farmers’ Market to make fresh, healthy food more accessible to the community.
The SNAP payment program, originally established with support from The Ohio State University Extension Office, allows Hancock County residents who receive SNAP benefits to exchange those benefits for tokens accepted by participating market vendors. These tokens may be used to purchase eligible food items, including fresh produce and other market goods. Not only does this partnership expand nutritious food options for shoppers, it also supports local farmers and food producers.
The program allows Hancock County residents who receive SNAP benefits to exchange those benefits for tokens accepted by participating market vendors. These tokens may be used to purchase eligible food items, including fresh produce and other market goods.
The SNAP payment program launched in 2022 and has continued to grow through the addition of Produce Perks, a grant-funded incentive program that matches SNAP dollars spent on fruits and vegetables one to one, up to $25 per visit. Produce Perks tokens can be saved and used at future market dates, providing added flexibility for shoppers.
During the 2025 farmers’ market season, over $1,200 in SNAP tokens were used to purchase fresh produce, baked goods, honey, food plants, and other locally produced items. By increasing purchasing power and improving access to nutritious food, the program strengthens both household food budgets and the local food economy.
Blanchard Valley Health System’s Power of Produce is a free program that empowers children to explore and enjoy healthy, locally grown foods at the farmers’ market. The first 50 children, ages 4-12, receive $6 in tokens to spend on fresh fruits and vegetables from local growers. In 2025, the Power of Produce program donated $5,500 to support and nourish local youth, with Hancock-Wood Electric Cooperative proudly contributing an additional $500 to help expand the program’s impact in the community.
The Hancock County Farmers’ Market is held from 4-6 p.m. Thursdays, May through October, at 200 W. Main Cross in downtown Findlay.