From November through April, Vouchers for Veterans rotates among indoor winter farmers markets and participating farm stands in New Hampshire & Southern Maine. At each visit, veterans and active duty military members receive a free $20 voucher to purchase fresh, locally produced food. Many veterans attend about three times a month as the program moves from location to location.
Winter is an especially important time for this program. Fresh food can be harder to find and more expensive, while heating bills and other household costs rise. The markets give veterans a reason to get out, connect with one another, and be reminded that their community appreciates their service. The vouchers are a thank-you for service.
Farmers and other participating food producers receive the full face value of every voucher they redeem. That income helps sustain local farms through the winter. As those producers make purchases of their own, the money continues to circulate in New Hampshire and Maine communities.
