
Farmers markets are vital for resilient local food systems. Virginia Fresh Match is committed to providing equitable access to quality food, supporting local farmers, and protecting the health and safety of the community. In the midst of the Covid-19 crisis, the Virginia Fresh Match Network is focusing our work to support farmers markets and neighborhood grocery stores as they navigate how to best provide continued affordable access to healthy food in their communities.
According to executive order 65 issued on June 9th, 2020 the Forward Virginia Phase two guidelines for farmers markets can be found on the official site of The Commonwealth of Virginia. This order establishes guidelines and best practices (pages 14-16) for operating farmers markets in Virginia during COVID-19.
The three neighborhood grocery stores with Virginia Fresh Match Friendly City Food Co-op (Harrisonburg), Roanoke Co-op, and The Market at 25th (Richmond) are still open and offering Virginia Fresh Match incentives. If you are a customer looking for information about a local outlet please follow the link to our VFM map, find your locations, and reach out to your market directly as their hours or location may have changed temporarily.
If you are a market manager, store owner, or community member seeking support please reach out to one of the Virginia Fresh Match regional leads.
Covid-19 and our response are constantly changing. please monitor our social media or reach out directly if you have time-sensitive questions or concerns. Thanks for your continued support of Virginia Fresh Match and local farmers, grocers, and food producers!
VFM – SNAP communication during COVID19
VCE safety protocols & updates
Virginia Department of Health
CDC recommendations
Virginia Association of Farmers Markets updates