Half Of Colorado Farmers Markets Take Food Stamps

DENVER (AP) - More people shopping at Colorado farmers markets and farmstands can now use food stamps to pay for their produce.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture says half of Colorado's 140 registered farmers markets and stands are now equipped to swipe the government debit cards issued to low-income shopper under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP.

In Colorado and across the country, the USDA has been trying to get more of the growing number of farmers markets to accept the cards by offering to pay for the necessary wireless access.

Besides helping low-income people get healthy, fresh fruit and vegetables, Undersecretary Kevin Concannon said Friday that the program helps support small farmers.