Backyard Gardens Engages Extension Volunteers to Fill Farmers Market Gap in Fresh Produce for Seniors
Agricultural Economics & Community Development
Ariel Agenbroad
Area Extension Educator, Community Food Systems and Small Farms
University of Idaho Extension
Boise
Abstract
In fall 2023, University of Idaho Extension was approached by a local health coalition to help increase the amount of produce available to seniors receiving vouchers at a local weeknight Farmers’ Market. The coalition implements a city-sponsored voucher program providing seniors with weekly coupons redeemable for fruits, vegetables, honey and eggs. The relatively new market struggled to maintain a steady roster of agricultural vendors and the produce selection was limited. To help meet the gap in supply, Educators wondered if home garden abundance in the community could serve as a supplemental source of seasonal produce without displacing commercial growers. Extension Master Gardener Volunteers and Master Food Safety Advisors were recruited and received training growing, harvesting and handling produce for quality and food safety, in exchange for volunteer credit. The market provided a booth space at no charge for 12 consecutive weeks in 2024 and 2025. Educators, interns and volunteers have since aggregated and distributed over 4500 pounds of donated food to senior voucher holders, who had the freedom to “shop” 57 different types of fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs throughout the season. Seniors were evaluated each year using an engaging dot survey. Seniors receiving and redeeming vouchers looked forward to visiting the Backyard Gardens booth and affirmed that it increased the produce selection available. They improved their ability to purchase and consume fresh fruits and vegetables, were getting out of the house more often to visit market, made new friends and connections. Volunteers reported an increase in their knowledge and ability to grow and harvest high quality produce, felt that they were providing valuable service to their community, and expressed a deeper appreciation for market farmers. The lessons learned and benefits measured throughout two seasons of the Backyard Gardens program could potentially be applied anywhere that eager community volunteers can be mobilized to meet temporary or small-scale community shortages in fresh food from their home and community gardens. The atmosphere of a real or even simulated Farmers Market atmosphere encourages repeat visits, socialization and autonomy of choice without stigma, contributing to positive physical, social and nutritional health impacts.
Authors: Ariel Agenbroad, Bradley Stokes, Surine Greenway
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Ariel Agenbroad Area Extension Educator, Community Food Systems and Small Farms, University of Idaho Exension, Idaho, 83714
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Bradley Stokes Extension Educator, University of Idaho Extension, Idaho, 83605
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Surine Greenway Extension Educator, University of Idaho Extension, Idaho, 83639