The Reston Farmers Market will be among several Fairfax County-sponsored markets that will take SNAP benefits this season.
The county received two grants to support expansion of the SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) at-market benefits program, formerly known as food stamps.
The 2014 grants will allow for an expanded program that will make farmers markets more accessible to low income families shopping for fresh, locally produced food, says Fairfax County.
In addition to the Reston Market — which operates Saturdays beginning May 3 at Lake Anne Plaza – markets in Lorton and Mount Vernon, as well as the farm stand at Herndon’s Frying Pan Farm Park, will also accept SNAP.
Expansion of the program was made possible through partnerships with Cornerstones, Arcadia, INOVA and the Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services, says Fairfax County.
Reston, Lorton and Mount Vernon will also offer matching dollar programs, in which the amount of money spent by SNAP recipients will be matched up to $10 for fruits and vegetables. The intent of the matching program is to enable recipients to choose healthier options without spending more of their SNAP funds.
The matching dollars programs at Lorton and McCutcheon/Mount Vernon markets are supported by Arcadia Center for Sustainable Food and Agriculture. The matching dollars program at Reston is supported by INOVA. Fundraising efforts continue through other community organizations and grant opportunities to expand this program.
Recent Stories

The Ravel Dance Studio will re-open for fall classes 2020. The school will offer in person and virtual online instruction. With over 5000 sq. ft. to social distance the school has added air ionization filtration systems, ballet barres, acrylic dividers, hands free bathrooms, strict monitoring and more.
The Ravel Dance Studio will produce a Nutcracker Ballet Hollywood style video through the Reston Community CenterStage. REGISTRATION online begins August 17.

Chris Green is one of the DMV’s finest fitness instructors. A Lululemon and South Block ambassador, he is a coach and mentor to so many. He embodies grace, positivity and motivation in ways that no one else can. If we could all learn a thing or two from him, the world would be a much better place. He does so much for others, and does so with a smile on his face 99% of the time.
He recently ruptured his Achilles and has an incredibly long and tough journey ahead. As if COVID hadn’t impacted fitness professionals enough, throw this in the mix and it’s a double, even triple whammy. CG is no longer able to work and do what he loves for the time being because of this and we’d love your support.