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Local group launches ‘Turn Up the Value’ campaign to expand Double Bucks at Johnston County farmers markets
Summary
DownHome, a community organization, announced a public launch and local kickoff for a campaign urging the county to fund Double Bucks incentive programs so low-income shoppers and seniors can access fresh food at farmers markets.
Elizabeth Lynn, speaking for DownHome, announced the public launch of the group's “Turn Up the Value / Double Bucks” campaign aimed at expanding fresh-food access for low-income families and seniors in Johnston County.
Lynn, who identified herself as a Clayton resident and a volunteer with DownHome, said the campaign responds to growing food insecurity in Johnston County and to what she described as long lines at the Smithfield food bank. She said members voted to advocate this year for the Double Bucks program, which supplements benefits at participating farmers markets to increase purchasing power for fresh produce.
Lynn invited the public to a free kickoff event on Saturday, April 12, from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the Clayton Main Street Community Garden, 439 East Main Street. She said the event will include fruit demonstrations, information about farmers markets and Double Bucks, and a family-friendly Easter-egg–style activity.
At the meeting Lynn asked commissioners to consider securing budget funding to help local farmers markets accept Double Bucks and offered to share data and program details with county staff.
No formal action was taken by the board during the public-comment period. Lynn’s remarks were recorded during the meeting’s public comments segment.
Event details: Turn Up the Value / Double Bucks kickoff, Saturday, April 12, 12–2 p.m., Clayton Main Street Community Garden, 439 East Main Street.
