Purpose

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) operates the WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (WIC FMNP) in Arkansas (this program is separate from the Senior FMNP, which is operated by the Arkansas Area Agency on Aging for senior citizens in Arkansas). The WIC FMNP was created for women and children who are at nutritional risk as a means to:

• Provide them with fresh, unprocessed, locally grown fruits, vegetables and herbs; and
• Increase the awareness and use of local farmers’ markets in Arkansas. 

Issuance

WIC FMNP coupons are issued to WIC participants in Arkansas (excluding infants less than one year old) on a first-come first-serve basis from May through August of each year. During these months, WIC participants that come into the Health Unit or WIC Clinic for certification are asked if they would like to receive FMNP coupons. WIC participants may also come to the Health Unit and request FMNP coupons beginning May 1st. All participants who receive FMNP coupons also receive brochures that provide the following information:

• A list of WIC FMNP authorized farmers’ markets – English
• A list of WIC FMNP authorized farmers’ markets –  Spanish
• A list of WIC FMNP approved fruits, vegetables and herbs they may purchase with their WIC FMNP coupons
• Instructions for using WIC FMNP coupons at authorized famers’ markets

The coupons must be used at WIC FMNP Authorized Farmers’ Markets from May through September. Federal requirements only allow five months to use the coupons, so participants must use them before October 1st each year or lose the benefits.

Participating Farmers’ Markets and Health Units

A number of health units and farmers’ markets are participating in the WIC FMNP. Find one near you here: Arkansas Health Units & WIC Clinics that issue WIC FMNP coupons.

Requirements for Farmers and Farmers’ Markets

Farmers and farmers’ markets must meet federal and state requirements to be considered for authorization as an Arkansas WIC FMNP Authorized Farmer or Farmers’ Market. Click to see a list of Arkansas WIC FMNP Farmer & Farmers’ Market Authorization Requirements.

Questions about Arkansas WIC FMNP?

Call 501-661-2508 or email: [email protected].