The Farmers Markets in Cowley County help meet the need for food assistance. In 2021 Cowley County reported 1,960 households receiving food assistance—the 10th highest county of need in Kansas. Both local farmers markets—the Walnut Valley Farmers Market and the Ark City Farm and Art Market—accept SNAP (formerly food stamps) benefits to help meet the need for fresh food for people who need assistance.
SNAP-EBT, in conjunction with a program called Double Up Food Bucks (DUFB), allowed market visitors to spend food assistance dollars on fresh fruits and vegetables and get more bang for their buck while supporting local farmers. A total of 135 customers utilized SNAP benefits at the markets the past season and $4,632 of food assistance funds were redeemed. Funding for Double Up Food Bucks was supported by Pathways to a Healthy Kansas a Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas initiative.
Ark City Farm and Art Market (Tuesdays, May 2-October 31, 2023)
Walnut Valley Farmers Market (Saturdays, May 6-October 28, 2023)
