Farmers Market Nutrition Program
The PA Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) provides checks to eligible WIC participants to buy locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables.
We recommend using the statewide Farmers Market search tool for more accurate information about markets in your area. Remember to look for the farmers market sign (shown below) to identify those farmers markets that accept PA Farmers Market Nutrition Program checks. Checks were mailed to eligible participants beginning in May and can be used through November.
The FMNP is designed to help promote good health by encouraging WIC participants to add more fresh fruits and vegetables to their diet. The program also provides families with nutrition education on healthy eating and helps to support local farmers. Seniors, the Department of Human Services Area on Aging is again distributing checks as part of the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program.
Example of the 2022 FMNP Check
Types of Food
FMNP checks can be used to buy unprocessed, locally-grown fruits and vegetables. Citrus or tropical fruits not grown in Pennsylvania such as bananas, oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruit, tangerines, pineapples, and mangos are not eligible for purchase through the program. Also, processed foods such as jams, honey, cider, and baked goods are also excluded.
Available in Early Summer:
- Asparagus
- Cherries
- Greens
- Lettuce
- Peas
- Rhubarb
- Radishes
- Spinach
- Swiss Chard
- Strawberries
Available Mid-Summer:
- Apricots
- Beans
- Berries
- Cantaloupe
- Celery
- Corn
- Cucumbers
- Eggplant
- Melons
- Mushrooms
- Nectarines
- Okra
- Peaches
- Peppers
- Squash
- Tomatoes
- Watermelon
Available During Late Summer:
- Apples
- Beets
- Broccoli
- Brussel sprouts
- Cabbage
- Carrots
- Cauliflower
- Squash
- Grapes
- Kale
- Kohlrabi
- Leeks
- Onions
- Parsnips
- Pears
- Plums
- Potatoes
- Pumpkins (eating only)
- Rutabagas
- Sweet potatoes
- Turnips
- Yams
- Zucchini
Note: Fresh Herbs are allowed if they are used for cooking or flavoring.
Farmers Market Resources
FMNP is sponsored by the United States Department of Agriculture, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, and the Pennsylvania Department of Health.
If you're a senior citizen looking for information on the Senior FMNP program, please call the Senior Line at 412-350-5460, or visit the Allegheny County Department of Human Services Programs for Older Adults.
If you have any questions, please call the WIC main office at 412-350-5801.
Additional Resources
Dates and times subject to change.
The Health Department is not responsible for markets that close early for the season or do not open due to weather.