The Double SNAP program—also known as Double Up Food Bucks or Double SNAP for Fruits and Vegetables—is a nutrition incentive initiative that helps SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) recipients stretch their food dollars while supporting local agriculture.

How It Works

• When a SNAP participant uses their EBT card at a participating farmers market or retailer, they receive a dollar-for-dollar match—typically up to $20 per day.

• The matched amount (often called Farm Fresh Bucks) can be used only for fresh fruits and vegetables, including mushrooms, seeds, and plants that produce food.

• For example, if someone spends $10 in SNAP benefits, they get $10 extra to spend on produce—doubling their purchasing power.

Where It’s Available

• Participating farmers markets, farm stands, and some grocery stores across Western North Carolina, including Macon County.

• The program is coordinated regionally by groups like ASAP Connections, MountainWise, and Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture, which together form the WNC Double SNAP Network.

Benefits

• Improves nutrition by making fresh, local produce more affordable

• Supports local farmers and strengthens rural economies

• Promotes food equity by reducing barriers for low-income families

Local Impact

• Many residents report that the program has been life-changing, helping them eat healthier and feel more connected to their community.

• It’s especially valuable for people with chronic health conditions, disabilities, or limited access to grocery stores.

SNAP & Double SNAP Impact at the Farmers Market

From May to November 2024, the market processed $4,150 in SNAP/EBT card transactions and distributed $4,028 in Double SNAP incentives. The slight difference between these figures reflects the timing of our grant approval, which came through in mid-June 2024, limiting our ability to match SNAP purchases earlier in the season.

Once the market reached full operating capacity, they consistently saw 5–10 SNAP transactions each Saturday. It’s important to note that many SNAP customers visit our Welcome Center just after their EBT cards are reloaded, often purchasing enough Market Tokens to last the entire month. As a result, weekly transaction counts don’t fully capture the number of SNAP shoppers benefiting from the market.

2025 Momentum & Projections

In May 2025 alone, the market processed $812 in SNAP transactions and matched that amount dollar-for-dollar through Double SNAP. If this pace continues, we anticipate distributing approximately $6,000 in Double SNAP incentives this year — a figure that aligns perfectly with the remaining balance in our current grant.