GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY — East Bay Township has launched a new Power of Produce program at the East Bay Corners Farmer’s Market.
According to a May 12 news release from the township, the launch is in part thanks to a Building Resilient Communities Grant from the Groundwork Center for Resilient Communities.
The Power of Produce (PoP) program is designed to engage children aged 5 to 13 in healthy eating habits and physical activity through a series of hands-on activities at the farmers market. The program will run for 13 weeks, starting on July 10 and ending on Oct. 2.
The East Bay Corners Farmer’s Market, which hosts the Power of Produce program, aims to provide fresh and locally grown products to the community.
It also seeks to educate the public on farming best practices and promote local agricultural business development.
The market will open on June 5, and will operate every Thursday from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Township Hall located at 1965 N. 3 Mile Road, Traverse City, MI 49696. It will continue until Oct. 2.
Participants in the Power of Produce program will complete a homework assignment each week to earn a coupon that can be used to purchase fresh produce at the market.
The initiative aims to not only encourage healthy eating but also support local farmers by increasing sales of fresh produce.
The Power of Produce program is expected to foster a greater appreciation for healthy eating and local agriculture among children in East Bay Township.
The farmers market, accepting SNAP/EBT benefits, provides an accessible venue for families to obtain fresh, nutritious food.