August 4, 2006

The Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH), along with Governor Granholm, is proclaiming the week of August 6 as Farmers' Market Week in Michigan.

“Farmers' markets play an integral role in both the economic welfare and overall health of Michigan citizens,” said Janet Olszewski, MDCH Director. “We depend on Michigan’s farmers to deliver healthy and affordable produce throughout the state.”

In 2005, the Farmer’s Market Nutrition Program, also known as Project FRESH, made fresh produce available to more than 38,000 low income and nutritionally at risk women and children. Over 761 Michigan farmers participated in the program, which grossed over $538,000 in produce sales.

Women and children ages 1-4, who are currently enrolled in the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program, are eligible to obtain coupons for Project FRESH to receive fresh fruits and vegetables. Women who are either pregnant or breastfeeding are also encouraged to collect Project FRESH coupons to help meet their special nutritional needs.

Across the state, Farmers’ markets provide consumers with farm-fresh products such as fruits, vegetables, cheeses, herbs, flowers, baked goods, and meats. The markets serve as integral links between urban, suburban, and rural communities. Supporting local anti-hunger initiatives, farmers donate unsold food products to programs that feed Michigan’s most vulnerable citizens.

For more information on how to become a Project FRESH farmer, please contact Pam Gove at (517) 335-8996.