WHEELING, W.Va. β A special nutrition initiative called ‘Kids Market at the Store’ is providing free food for families across West Virginia, and all it takes to participate is a token.
The West Virginia University Extension Family Nutrition Program offers free fruits and vegetables at more than 61 retailers in 35 West Virginia counties, including The Public Market in Wheeling.
The program is open to children ages 2 to 17, who can “shop” and check out their food using $60 worth of tokens.
“The kids get to start seeing that they have access to produce and that they can shop at a young age,β said Sarah Morgan, vendor manager at The Public Market. βHopefully, it will plant a seed now that they will continue to grow and develop into, βI want to look for that. I know where to look for that in the market.β”
To participate, families need to apply online. Participants are partnered with local stores such as Butch’s Corner in Marshall County, which is funded by the Benedum Foundation.
Health educator Molly Poffenbarger emphasized that one of the programβs main goals is to increase fruit and vegetable consumption among children.
“And, especially, that starts with kids,β Poffenbarger said. βThe more theyβre exposed to fresh fruits and vegetables and get the opportunity to pick their own fruits and vegetables and get to pay for them, I think thatβs a win-win situation.β
Although the 2024 season spots are fully booked, families can apply for the 2025 program. Poffenbarger highlighted that this initiative provides kids with real-life experiences while feeding them and their families for free.
“Food insecurity is a huge issue statewide,β Poffenbarger said. βEvery county is probably affected by it; especially fresh fruits and vegetables can be expensive. It can be hard to get local, good-tasting ones, and this program is definitely helping with that.”
If you or your family would like to be a part of the 2025 program, you can find a link to the application by tapping or clicking [HERE].
Matt Pinner is a dedicated journalist for WVPrepBB.com, specializing in USA and crime news. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for uncovering the truth, Matt brings timely and insightful reporting to his readers. His work on WVPrepBB.com keeps the community informed and engaged with the latest developments in national news and criminal justice.
