Mount Vernon Farmers Market has announced the availability of locally grown fruits and vegetables as the Knox County growing season reaches its peak.
According to the Mount Vernon Farmers Market, local farmers and food producers offer a wide selection of goods every Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon on the Public Square. Over 20 vendors participate, selling items grown or made within 25 miles of downtown Mount Vernon. These include vegetables such as cucumbers, green beans, and tomatoes, along with meats, baked goods, goat milk soap, honey, maple syrup, and jams. This geographic requirement is intended to support the local economy while providing shoppers with fresh, seasonal food options.
The market also offers various food assistance programs to make shopping more affordable. These include SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), Produce Perks, WIC (Women, Infants, and Children), the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program, and other local initiatives. WIC staff will be present at the market to distribute program coupons.
Shoppers using SNAP benefits can exchange their card for market tokens at the information booth. These tokens are valid for any eligible food item. Additionally, the Produce Perks program provides a dollar-for-dollar match up to $25 for fruits and vegetables. Later in the season, produce tokens will be distributed by the Knox County Task Force for Older Adults to residents aged 60 and older. Community members can stay informed through the market’s Facebook and Instagram pages or by listening to monthly updates on WMVO's AM Knox County radio show.
All produce vendors must complete Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) training through OSU Extension Knox County. This training outlines procedures to ensure safe handling and hygiene. Cottage food vendors are required to follow specific labeling regulations that include details such as product name, ingredient list, net weight, and producer information.
