Vouchers for Veterans readies for month of giving back at farmers markets

The vouchers can be used toward the purchase of fresh, locally sourced food, sold by regional farmers and growers, at any of the local farmers markets. (Courtesy photo)

Vouchers for Veterans is reminding local Veterans that during the month of September, anyone who has served or is currently serving this country in the armed services may attend any of the nine regional farmers markets, including Rochester, and receive $20 week in food vouchers.

The vouchers can be used toward the purchase of fresh, locally sourced food, sold by regional farmers and growers, at any of the local farmers markets listed below.

Rocester's is held on Tuesdays at the Common.

Others take place on Sunday in Littleton, Wednesdays in Dover, Thursdays in Exeter and Wolfeboro, Saturday: in Portsmouth, Barnstead as well as Sanford and Kennebunk in Maine.

The program is not based on income, therefore, veterans can attend the market of their choice, stop by the Vouchers for Veterans tent, and show proof of service and residency to receive vouchers. Veterans may take advantage of the program every week. (Each week begins on Sunday and runs through Saturday.) Vouchers can also be used at McKenzies Farm, in Milton, any day in September.

According to program founder Jeanne Grover, in September 2021, the Vouchers for Veterans program was accessed more than 3,000 times.

"The program offers veterans much more than fresh food," said Grover. "We bring isolated Veterans back into the community, where they can feel safe among their comrades. When they attend, they can learn about our benefits, and most importantly, that they are not alone."

Grover added that beyond the weekly markets in September, Vouchers for Veterans will be at a Winter Farmers Market each week in January, February, March and April.

"With the addition of the indoor Winter Farmers Markets, the Veterans may access fresh food with vouchers 23 weeks out of the year," said Grover. "Veterans get locally sourced food and socialization. Farmers, growers, and bakers get additional revenue by receiving the face value of every voucher redeemed. Everyone wins and the money stays local."

For general inquiries, email info@vouchersforveterans.org or call (603) 817-6030. Visit www.vouchersforveterans.org to learn more about the program, find a Farmers Market, or make a donation.

About Vouchers for Veterans
The mission of Vouchers for Veterans is to show recognition and gratitude to Veterans living in New Hampshire and Maine primarily by providing them with vouchers to purchase locally grown and prepared food directly from farmers and growers at local farmers markets.