Progress 04/01/15 to 03/31/19
Outputs
Target Audience:Fresh Access Bucks' (FAB) targeted 3,178,027 Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients throughout Florida with outlets in 23 Florida counties: 46 farmer's markets, three mobile market and two CSAs from April 1, 2015 - September 30th, 2018. Within these 23 counties are 2,329,806 SNAP recipients, which represent approximately 74% of all SNAP recipients in Florida (2016). These counties had populations between 9.6%-24.9% below the poverty line and 55.6%-71.5% of overweight or obese adults. The participating outlets geographically span from the Florida Panhandle to Miami in the South, with a peak growing season from October thru May. Most FAB markets operate year round. FAB strategically targets farmers markets in and around food deserts, low-income communities, and along transportation routes, that feature Florida farmers. Many of the FAB market partner sites are located in cities with population percentages below the poverty line that are greater than the 17.2% Florida average in the 2012 census. SNAP recipients are the main beneficiaries of this project. Efforts to engage the target audience were on site at educational events during farmers market business hours, at community information sessions, and in collaboration with local, regional and state partners. Changes/Problems: The FAB team strives to expand the network intelligently and efficiently while maintaining a high level of support for our current partners. We had to think creatively about bringing in new markets and underestimated the amount of time it would take to do background data collection and due diligence on all applications. Florida does not have a state association of farmers markets or definition of a true farmers market. This indirectly requires FAB staff to spend more time researching and ensuring direct marketing Florida farmers are present at potential FAB markets and provide support to MMs for recruiting additional farmer vendors. We received a great deal of applications that did not meet our network requirements, most notably, ones that were not accessible to low income populations, did not have Florida farmers or a transparent, state/farm of origin labeling system. Issues in sustaining free EBT equipment for farmers markets was ongoing with multiple events of contracts ending, service providers changing or avoiding bankruptcy. The uncertainty surrounding access to affordable and available equipment scared multiple partners considering accepting SNAP at their outlet away from this service for their communities. The number of people on SNAP and its funding in Florida declined. Due to limited internal capacity and funding, or lease and land access the FAB team lost 12 partner markets that had been trained and previously participated in the FAB program. Urban Growers experienced continued delays with getting their Henrietta Urban Farm and Market and Riviera Beach Farmers Market's SNAP and FAB programs started. They continue to experience a significant deal of street violence, staff turnover and vandalism at their urban farm. They have yet to have any SNAP transactions at either market and are no longer a part of the FAB program. FOG had to hire a collections agency in order to retrieve federal funds still retained by this delinquent partner. The following partners experienced technological difficulties with faulty EBT equipment that hindered their ability to process SNAP transactions and provide dependable service to SNAP recipients: Dania Beach PATCH Market, Berry Good Farms on the Go, Venice Farmers Market, High Springs Farmers Market, Punta Gorda Farmers Market, Alachua County Farmers Market, Brevard County Farmers Market, Sweetwater Organic Farm, Market, and CSA, Frenchtown Farmers Market, Riverside Arts Market, DIG Local, and Union Street Farmers Market. FAB Markets continue to express that EBT equipment expenses are a financial burden. Moreover, inadequate number of paid market staff hinders their ability to do sufficient outreach to SNAP recipients to inform them of the program, fundraise independently for their SNAP efforts and conduct nutrition education efforts. Transportation to and from FAB markets continues to be a barrier to participation across the state. Certain FAB markets lack infrastructure, such as bathrooms, electricity, large dishwashing sinks and smooth, durable and easily cleanable floors, that contribute to logistical complications for nutrition education efforts. In most circumstances, they lack funding to make necessary upgrades. The University of Florida's SNAP Ed program experienced delays and funding issues, resulting in a transition from the Horticulture Department to the Family Nutrition Program (FNP). Currently, the nutrition education initiative is being handled by local, county FNP agents with great success and high praise for having local and sustained engagement between markets and extension agents. However, FNP does not operate statewide, and thus many markets are left out from very relevant and helpful resources and cooking/nutrition education. In October 2018, Hurricane Michael had devastating effects on farms and market operations in Florida's Panhandle region and the state suffered $1.5 billion in agricultural damage. Markets on the east coast were forced to close for a week or more, due to property damage or flooding. Storms of this magnitude have become an annual occurrence, so the FAB team has developed a Florida Agricultural Resilience to Hurricanes presentation designed to educate Florida farmers, market and community partners on best practices before, during, and after this type of natural disaster. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? FAB Partner Trainings and Community Info Sessions - FOG co-organized community planning sessions with twelve new partners where local government agencies, nonprofits, community members, market staff and vendors participated in FAB trainings and information sessions before the program began. These trainings included USDA regulations for authorized SNAP retailers to ensure they are in compliance with all relevant SNAP operating requirements. FAB Site Visits - FOG conducted site visits annually with all 52 partners to monitor procedures and ensure standardization. Statewide FAB Training - FOG hosted in-person, day-long trainings for professional development annually. Workshop topics included FM Tracks Data Collection, Nationwide and Florida Specific Evaluation with WW, Best Practices for Fundraising and working with Local Government, Florida Agency Resources for Farmers Markets, Working with Farmers, Fundraising for Sustainability, and Effective Outreach. FAB Technical Support - FOG provided technical support to project partners to ensure they had the capacity to implement the project and comply with USDA regulations through email, webinars and phone calls. Monthly, Regional Conference Calls - The same day and time of the 1st week of every month, FOG hosts three separate regional check-in calls with FAB markets: North, Central and South. It's an opportunity to hear FAB updates, share what's going well/not going well and talk to other MMs. One staff person from each market is required to attend. SNAP/EBT Equipment Technical Support - FOG provided training, technical assistance and materials to farmers markets statewide in the SNAP merchant application process, free EBT equipment grants, EBT Service provider considerations, best practices for SNAP acceptance at market and for the implementation of the incentive program FAB. FM Tracks Data Collection - FAB markets received training on the innovative iOS application (app) called FM Tracks, developed by Case Western Reserve University, which assists with data collection and monitoring at market. Trainings included one-on-one technical support via the phone/email, webinars, hand-outs, and in-person workshops. The app ensures that FAB markets effectively track progress and growth over the course of the grant. Case Western University brings expertise and a track record in project evaluation to analyze variations across sites annually for their relationship to site-level indicators (e.g. transactions), site characteristics, and community demographics. FAB Toolkit - FOG developed, refined, updated and shared materials with project partners including but not limited to the following FAB toolkit components: FAB welcome packet, program descriptions to communicate to potential partner markets, mid and season-end report forms, data collection tools, FAB MM guide, vendor guide, flyer templates, recommended signage, vendor agreements, contracts for FOG, WW, and partner markets, accounting and recording keeping templates, promotional materials, nutrition education ideas, evaluations, fundraising ideas, Florida farmers market regulations, and EBT Service Provider and Payment Option information. FAB Network Growth and Collaboration - FOG provided the following opportunities for FAB markets to connect and share challenges and successes: FOG shared FAB partner contact information so markets can call/email one another. Closed Facebook Group for our FABulous partners - "FAB Partner Markets" This group provides a forum for FAB MMs to connect, pose questions, stay connected, share best practices, and give helpful tips and updates on the program. Public Facebook Page for FAB - "Fresh Access Bucks" This is our public facebook page for the statewide program. Our partners and vendors use this page to share the SNAP incentive program with eligible audiences who are otherwise not being reached. Visit another FAB Market - We encourage our FAB partners to visit each other's markets and see how the program operates across the state. FAB partners with Wholesome Wave (WW), a national leader in nutrition incentive programming. WW is transforming individual, community, economic, and environmental health by facilitating a national network of nutrition incentive practitioners dedicated to leveraging simple solutions at the local level into long term policy change. WW works with FAB to build the capacity of network members to deliver nutrition incentive program benefits to their customers, farmers, and communities. As network members, FAB markets participate in a community of innovation and learning, have their impact aggregated as part of a national data set, and serve as policy advocates. National Nutrition Incentive Network listserv: FAB markets can submit questions/comments on a national listserv. FAB Partners have access to Wholesome Wave's Online resource library. ? How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The FAB Team utilized the following tools to communicate to external audiences about our work: FOG Website - currently averages 2,800 unique (new) visitors a month. (www.foginfo.org) Fresh Access Bucks webpage (www.FreshAccessBucks.com) - average 386 visitors per month. FOG's monthly e-Newsletter - distributed to more than 4,700 people Social Media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Blog) General Media (through press releases, specific to the local media and radio) Market level community partnerships get the word out about the program at the local level. FAB promotional materials and strategic brand - FAB logo, social media graphics, tent, banner, bilingual flyers, posters and brochure. The FAB team made the following outreach efforts about our work (over 135 individuals/organizations contacted): Sent FAB flyers and SNAP Tech Support flyers to all Department of Children and Families' regional offices statewide and over 160 farmers markets on the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). Connected FAB partners to organizations surrounding our markets that sign individuals up for SNAP benefits. Informed the following organizations and agencies about FAB: farmers certified by Quality Certification Services in Florida, Farm Credit of Florida, Farmers Market Coalition, Fresh From Florida, Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education, Natural Resources Conservation Services, Florida A&M University, Florida Food and Farm Magazine, Edible Magazine Communities statewide, Citrus Industry Magazine, Florida Grower, Florida Agritourism Association, Florida Department of Health, Florida Community Loan Fund, Slow Food Chapters statewide, University of Florida IFAS Extension Offices statewide. ? What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?
Nothing Reported
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Over the course of the grant period, 32 markets were added as partner outlets in the FAB program for a total of 52 participating outlets. FAB provided up to $5,000 for first year market partners, and up to $10,000 per outlet for legacy outlet partners. Number of EBT/SNAP Transactions: 29,028 Number of Unique Shoppers: unique shoppers with SNAP cards: 15,604 Amount of fresh, Florida grown fruits and vegetables purchased: $499,885.86 At least 569 Florida farmers saw increased revenue due to participation in this program To increase SNAP recipients' awareness of the importance of eating fresh fruits and vegetables, and familiarize participants with local and seasonal produce available at markets in Florida, FOG helped to facilitate regular, nutrition/taste education efforts at FAB markets with community partners and local chefs. 434 nutrition education initiatives occurred at market partner sites between April 1, 2015 - September 30th, 2018. FOG and UF's SNAP Ed Program developed and distributed flyers, banners, press releases, social media advertisements and website calendar information to notify customers of upcoming demos. The UF/IFAS SNAP Ed, partnered with FOG to conduct thirteen Eat with the Seasons Cooking Demonstrations at 24 participating FAB markets. Cooking demonstrations were conducted by the FNP county faculty. UF/IFAS SNAP Ed offered direct education to patrons using the Cooking Matters in Your Community curriculum. Cooking Matters In Your Community is a one-time cooking demonstration that incorporates key nutrition and food budgeting messages. Participants learn to cook and eat healthy on a budget. At each demonstration evaluations were conducted. These surveys indicated that participants either agreed or strongly agreed that they would intend on changing their eating behaviors, try new fruits and vegetables, practice new healthy cooking methods, leading to increased local f&v purchases. FAB collaborated with market partners to design 12 seasonal recipe cards with an emphasis on Florida grown produce. FOG developed and provided the following standard marketing and promotional materials for each participating market to increase their outreach about FAB: FAB logo, social media graphics, tent, banner, bilingual flyers, posters, website and brochure. FOG also worked with the following agencies to increase awareness and outreach to intended beneficiaries: Florida Department of Health, Healthiest Weight Florida worked with FOG to promote the FAB program in order to reduce the burden of obesity and chronic disease in Florida. FOG presented on Healthiest Weight Informational webinars, met in person and communicated via email/phone with Healthiest Weight representatives in FAB counties across the state. A representative from FDOH presented three consecutive years of the FAB Annual Trainings. Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) worked with FOG to promote FAB, good nutrition, health, and wellness of throughout the state. FDACS also assisted FOG in the development, dissemination, and evaluation of agricultural nutrition education material, supported program initiatives, and assisted in educating communities on the preparation of agricultural products produced in the state. The following activities were completed over the course of the grant: FDACS and FOG participated in regular meetings to inform each other on program progress and implementation. FDACS and FOG worked together to reach out to 173 listed farmers markets in the state to inform of SNAP tech support and FAB program details. Active markets were added to Florida's Roadmap to Living Healthy online (Bryan Norris, FDACS) Active and potential markets were added to community market locator tool on FDACS website (Carl Penn, FDACS). Explored ways to co-message to targeted constituencies (SNAP Households) through existing efforts. Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) DCF and FOG communicated regularly and met annually to inform each other on program progress and implementation. DCF informed and introduced FOG to community liaisons and ACCESS sites throughout the state by webinar. DCF allowed communication of FAB program details to SNAP recipients via verbal communication and flyer distribution. Evaluation efforts to examine impact of program implementation were rigorous and conducted in four key ways: 1. FOG, in partnership with Wholesome Wave and University of Delaware (UD) researchers, administered a field-based, multi-site randomized experiment to test the effectiveness of several incentive program innovations. The evaluation investigated: 1) If different incentive levels result in different fruit and vegetable purchase and consumption levels; 2) comparative outcomes of monetary and nonmonetary incentives; 3) the extent to which natural variation in site characteristics and management explains differences in incentive redemption rates and/or fruit and vegetable purchasing and consumption. The outcomes of this research was elaborated on in Year 3 Progress Report. 2. Data was continually collected through FM Tracks, an iOS-based mobile and online application for collecting and reporting incentive program data by all FAB markets. Wholesome Wave launched the app in July 2015 to streamline digitized data entry and replace pen and paper data collection systems that most markets had been using. Because FM Tracks imposes consistent metrics on all sites, the system also facilitates detailed cross-site analysis of innovations and the factors that make programs successful. Points of mandatory collection included: transaction amounts, SNAP and FAB incentive distributed, customer IDs to track repeat participation, zip codes, and vendor redemption of SNAP and FAB incentive. 3. FOG worked with consultant, Dr. O'Dare Wilson to design, implement, analyze, and report on a mixed-method to examine FAB Market Manager's (MM) experiences with the FAB program. Dr. O'Dare Wilson administered a brief, web-based questionnaire to participating markets. We asked questions regarding the perceptions and characteristics of the market, barriers to participation in the FAB program, and potential solutions to barriers. In addition, we queried the MM regarding the characteristics necessary to successfully manage and grow the program. The outcomes of this research was elaborated on in Year 3 Progress Report. 4. FAB Annual Reports - Thirty nine market partners representing fifty two outlets provided an annual report to FOG outlining the expenditure of funds, challenges and successes that occurred during the period and feedback on annual FAB Training Workshop topics. FOG reviewed, maintained the reports and verified appropriate use of funds. ? Summary of Challenges - Outreach/Promotion: experienced difficulty getting the word out, advertising and promotion, receiving support from local agencies; difficulty getting county or local support for FAB;. Programmatic: negative biases against SNAP shoppers and our markets that support them; learning new data entry website; lack of paid staff and volunteers; too few farmers; EBT equipment expenses; too many responsibilities; transitioning from resellers market to producer only; confusing and cumbersome amount of scrip; lack of public transportation; violence in the community surrounding the market. Summary of Successes - Outreach/Promotion: community food events; partnerships with local agencies and organizations; hiring local SNAP recipients as market ambassadors and to canvas their communities with flyers; numerous articles in local newspapers, radio, magazines and TV. Programmatic: increased vendor participation; improved visibility at market with banners, signage, FAB tents and flyers; loyal return customers; consistent flow of new customers;nutrition education efforts; FAB 5 frequent shopper (loyalty) card.
Publications
|
Progress 04/01/17 to 03/31/18
Outputs
Target Audience:Fresh Access Bucks' (FAB) targeted 3,178,027 Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients throughout Florida with outlets in 23 Florida counties: 40 farmer's markets, three mobile market and two CSAs from April 1, 2017 - March 31, 2018. Within these 23 counties are 2,329,806 SNAP recipients, which represent approximately 74% of all SNAP recipients in Florida (2016). These counties had populations between 9.6%-24.9% below the poverty line and 55.6%-71.5% of overweight or obese adults. The participating outlets geographically span from the Florida Panhandle to Miami in the South, with a peak growing season from October thru May. Most FAB markets operate year round. FAB strategically targets farmers markets in and around food deserts, low-income communities, and along transportation routes, that feature Florida farmers. Many of the FAB market partner sites are located in cities with population percentages below the poverty line that are greater than the 17.2% Florida average in the 2012 census. SNAP recipients are the main beneficiaries of this project. Changes/Problems: FOG's Accounting team was fired and transitioned out in December, 2016. Ongoing issues with grant reporting and financial submission occurred until new accounting personnel were properly trained. The yearly financial budget for FAB activities remains unapproved internally, leaving FAB program staff apprehensive on executing grant directives. The FAB team strives to expand the network intelligently and efficiently while maintaining a high level of support for our current partners. We had to think creatively about bringing in new markets and underestimated the amount of time it would take to do background data collection and due diligence on all applications. Florida does not have a state association of farmers markets or definition of a true farmers market. This indirectly requires FAB staff to spend more time researching and ensuring direct marketing Florida farmers are present at potential FAB markets and provide support to MMs for recruiting additional farmer vendors. We received a great deal of applications that did not meet our network requirements, most notably, ones that were not accessible to low income populations, did not have Florida farmers or a transparent, state/farm of origin labeling system. The availability of the free EBT equipment program from the Farmers Market Coalition (FMC) ended in November, 2017, greatly impacting the ability of markets to accept SNAP at their market. This in turn, halted the addition of partner markets to the FAB program. The distribution of SNAP benefits by FDCF changed from a 15 day cycle to a 28 day cycle, and there have been glitches. More than one of our patrons visited a FAB market only to find that they had no access to their benefits until the 29th of the month. Moreover, the number of people on SNAP and its funding in Florida declined. Due to limited internal capacity and funding, three partner markets are no longer participating in the FAB program. Urban Growers experienced continued delays with getting their Henrietta Urban Farm and Market and Riviera Beach Farmers Market's SNAP and FAB programs started. They continue to experience a significant deal of street violence, staff turnover and vandalism at their urban farm. They have yet to have any SNAP transactions at either market and are no longer a part of the FAB program. FOG had to hire a collections agency in order to retrieve federal funds still retained by this delinquent partner. The following partners experienced technological difficulties with faulty EBT equipment that hindered their ability to process SNAP transactions and provide dependable service to SNAP recipients: Dania Beach PATCH Market, Berry Good Farms on the Go, Venice Farmers Market, High Springs Farmers Market, Punta Gorda Farmers Market, Alachua County Farmers Market, Brevard County Farmers Market, Sweetwater Organic Farm, Market, and CSA. FAB Markets continue to express that EBT equipment expenses are a financial burden. Moreover, inadequate number of paid market staff hinders their ability to do sufficient outreach to SNAP recipients to inform them of the program, fundraise independently for their SNAP efforts and conduct nutrition education efforts. Transportation to and from FAB markets continues to be a barrier to participation across the state. Certain FAB markets lack infrastructure, such as bathrooms, electricity, large dishwashing sinks and smooth, durable and easily cleanable floors, that contribute to logistical complications for nutrition education efforts. In most circumstances, they lack funding to make necessary upgrades. The University of Florida's SNAP Ed program experienced delays and funding issues, resulting in a transition from the Horticulture Department to the Family Nutrition Program (FNP). Currently, the nutrition education initiative is being handled by local, county FNP agents with great success and high praise for having local and sustained engagement between markets and extension agents. However, FNP does not operate statewide, and thus many markets are left out from very relevant and helpful resources and cooking/nutrition education. ? What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? FAB Partner Trainings and Community Info Sessions - FOG co-organized community planning sessions with the twelve new partners where local government agencies, nonprofits, community members, market staff and vendors participated in FAB trainings and information sessions before the program began. These trainings included USDA regulations for authorized SNAP retailers to ensure they are in compliance with all relevant SNAP operating requirements. FAB Site Visits - FOG conducted site visits with all 45 partners to monitor procedures and ensure standardization. Statewide FAB Training - FOG hosted an in-person, day-long training for professional development in Orlando, FL for thirty eight market partners in October 2017. Workshop topics included FM Tracks Data Collection, Nationwide and Florida Specific Evaluation with WW, Best Practices for Fundraising and working with Local Government, Florida Agency Resources for Farmers Markets, Working with Farmers, and Effective Outreach. FAB Technical Support - FOG provided technical support to project partners to ensure they had the capacity to implement the project and comply with USDA regulations through email, webinars and phone calls. Monthly, Regional Conference Calls - The same day and time of the 1st week of every month, FOG hosts three separate regional check-in calls with FAB markets: North, Central and South. It's an opportunity to hear FAB updates, share what's going well/not going well and talk to other MMs. One staff person from each market is required to attend. SNAP/EBT Equipment Technical Support - FOG provided training, technical assistance and materials to farmers markets statewide in the SNAP merchant application process, free EBT equipment grants, EBT Service provider considerations, best practices for SNAP acceptance at market and for the implementation of the incentive program FAB. FM Tracks Data Collection - FAB markets received training on the innovative iOS application (app) called FM Tracks, developed by Case Western Reserve University, which assists with data collection and monitoring at market. Trainings included one-on-one technical support via the phone/email, webinars, hand-outs, and in-person workshops. The app ensures that FAB markets effectively track progress and growth over the course of the grant. Case Western University brings expertise and a track record in project evaluation to analyze variations across sites annually for their relationship to site-level indicators (e.g. transactions), site characteristics, and community demographics. FAB Toolkit - FOG developed, refined, updated and shared materials with project partners including but not limited to the following FAB toolkit components: FAB welcome packet, program descriptions to communicate to potential partner markets, mid and season-end report forms, data collection tools, FAB MM guide, vendor guide, flyer templates, recommended signage, vendor agreements, contracts for FOG, WW, and partner markets, accounting and recording keeping templates, promotional materials, nutrition education ideas, evaluations, fundraising ideas, Florida farmers market regulations, and EBT Service Provider and Payment Option information. FAB Network Growth and Collaboration - FOG provided the following opportunities for FAB markets to connect and share challenges and successes: FOG shared FAB partner contact information so markets can call/email one another. Closed Facebook Group for our FABulous partners - "FAB Partner Markets" This group provides a forum for FAB MMs to connect, pose questions, stay connected, share best practices, and give helpful tips and updates on the program. Public Facebook Page for FAB - "Fresh Access Bucks" This is our public facebook page for the statewide program. Our partners and vendors use this page to share the SNAP incentive program with eligible audiences who are otherwise not being reached. Visit another FAB Market - We encourage our FAB partners to visit each other's markets and see how the program operates across the state. FAB partners with Wholesome Wave (WW), a national leader in nutrition incentive programming. WW is transforming individual, community, economic, and environmental health by facilitating a national network of nutrition incentive practitioners dedicated to leveraging simple solutions at the local level into long term policy change. WW works with FAB to build the capacity of network members to deliver nutrition incentive program benefits to their customers, farmers, and communities. As network members, FAB markets participate in a community of innovation and learning, have their impact aggregated as part of a national data set, and serve as policy advocates. National Nutrition Incentive Network listserv: FAB markets can submit questions/comments on a national listserv. FAB Partners have access to Wholesome Wave's Online resource library. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The FAB Team utilized the following tools to communicate to external audiences about our work: - FOG Website - currently averages 2,800 unique (new) visitors a month. (www.foginfo.org) - Fresh Access Bucks webpage (www.FreshAccessBucks.com) - 5,582 unique (new) views from 4/1/17 - 3/31/18 (average 426 per month). - FOG's monthly e-Newsletter - distributed to more than 4,700 people Social Media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Blog) General Media (through press releases, specific to the local media and radio) Market level community partnerships get the word out about the program at the local level. FAB promotional materials and strategic brand - FAB logo, social media graphics, tent, banner, bilingual flyers, posters and brochure. The FAB team made the following outreach efforts about our work (over 135 individuals/organizations contacted): Sent FAB flyers and SNAP Tech Support flyers to all Department of Children and Families' regional offices statewide and over 160 farmers markets on the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). Connected FAB partners to organizations surrounding our markets that sign individuals up for SNAP benefits. Informed the following organizations and agencies about FAB: farmers certified by Quality Certification Services in Florida, Farm Credit of Florida, Farmers Market Coalition, Fresh From Florida, Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education, Natural Resources Conservation Services, Florida A&M University, Florida Food and Farm Magazine, Edible Magazine Communities statewide, Citrus Industry Magazine, Florida Grower, Florida Agritourism Association, Florida Department of Health, Florida Community Loan Fund, Slow Food Chapters statewide, University of Florida IFAS Extension Offices statewide. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Goal 1: Expand program into new markets - Over the course of the grant period we will add 30 new markets (10 new each year). A new market in our network receives $5,000 for incentives in their first year. Continue to identify new market partners that meet criteria on an ongoing basis. Enter into contracts with 5 new partners to meet the goal of 50 active market partners. Schedule community planning sessions with local government agencies, nonprofits and local residents to discuss FAB and collect feedback on its implementation and outreach in their community for new partners. Schedule training sessions with MMs and Vendors for new partners. MMs will sign formal contracts with all participating vendors that state that they will comply with SNAP and FAB program regulations. Compliance with this agreement will be enforced and monitored by FOG. Host a Farmers Market Crop Up, a one day event to provide resources, educational workshops and networking for Florida farmers market managers that are interested in becoming SNAP authorized and joining the FAB program. Goal 2: Enhance program at current markets - Understanding that established markets that have been participating in FAB for one or more years have higher participation rates in the program, FOG will increase the amount of incentives awarded to these markets up to $10,000 per year. Continue to monitor and support program implementation at 50 partner sites. Evaluate the 45 current market partners to best understand their needs for program enhancement. Double incentive budget for markets that have participated in FAB for one year or more and show need for growth. Host the Fourth annual FAB Training with 50 partners in Lakeland, FL. Continue to work on five-year strategic plan to continue FAB incentive programming beyond the scope of this grant based on the input of stakeholders. MMs will sign formal contracts with all participating vendors that state that they will comply with SNAP and FAB program regulations. Compliance with this agreement will be enforced and monitored by FOG. Continue to develop, refine and update materials including but not limited to: program descriptions to communicate to potential partner markets; mid and season-end report forms; data collection tools; Fresh Access Bucks toolkit (MM guide, vendor guide, flier templates, recommended signage); vendor agreements; contracts for FOG, WW, and partner markets. Goal 3: To increase SNAP recipients' awareness of the importance of eating fresh fruits and vegetables, and familiarize participants with local and seasonal produce available at markets in Florida. Market partners will conduct monthly nutrition/taste education initiatives. SNAP-ED, FOG and market partners will conduct outreach and advertising for the nutrition education initiatives through press releases, flyers and social media. FOG will supply materials necessary to conduct cooking demonstrations such as tables, hot plates, pots and pans for new markets. SNAP-Ed will collect evaluation data and share results with FOG and FAB partners. - - FOG Website - currently averages 2,800 unique (new) visitors a month. (www.foginfo.org) - Fresh Access Bucks webpage (www.FreshAccessBucks.com) - 5,582 unique (new) views from 4/1/17 - 3/31/18 (average 426 per month). - FOG's monthly e-Newsletter - distributed to more than 4,700 people - Social Media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Blog) - General Media (through press releases, specific to the local media and radio) - Market level community partnerships get the word out about the program at the local level. - Distribute FAB promotional materials and communicate our strategic brand to partner markets- FAB logo, social media graphics, tent, banner, bilingual flyers, posters and brochure. List market partners on www.FreshAccessBucks.com website Create downloadable flyers for each partner market available online at www.FreshAccessBucks.com Continue to participate in regular calls with the Florida Department of Agriculture, Division of Food, Nutrition and Wellness and Wholesome Wave to collaborate and share information. Continue to connect FAB partners to organizations surrounding our markets that sign individuals up for SNAP benefits. Continue to serve as a liaison between state, local and federal agencies and organizations to develop and implement programs that promote community health and wellness. Goal 5: Evaluate FAB's Progress and Outcomes Through partner organization WW's Online Data Portal, MMs input data weekly onto FM Tracks to monitor the participation and growth of the FAB program. Data collected and provided through this portal includes: - # EBT transactions towards local, fresh fruits and vegetables - # new SNAP recipient customers purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables; - SNAP dollars spent on locally grown fruits and vegetables at Florida farmer booths; - FAB Incentive dollars distributed to SNAP customers and redeemed by farmers for the purchase of more Florida grown fruits and vegetables - Anonymous, unique SNAP shopper ID (optional) MMs complete Annual FAB Reports for FOG Continue to monitor data collection at partner market sites. Data analysis of statewide Fresh Access Bucks program. Independent Evaluations: - Work with University of Florida Professor John Diaz on mixed method study on FAB in Florida. - Use evaluations to inform future program planning.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Statewide from April 1, 2017 - March 31, 2018, FAB had 13,358 SNAP transactions, 4,900 new shoppers with SNAP cards, $205,177 SNAP and $178,401 FAB incentive sales, and $204,928 SNAP and $189,623 FAB incentives redeemed. Goal 1: Twelve new outlets received training, up to $5,000 in incentive funding and materials to implement FAB between April 1, 2016 - March 31, 2017. These outlets had the following accomplishments: Number of EBT/SNAP Transactions: 1332 Number of Unique Shoppers: 737 unique shoppers with SNAP cards Amount of fresh, Florida grown fruits and vegetables purchased (FAB incentives): $16,185 Goal 2: Understanding that established markets that have been participating in FAB for one or more years have higher participation rates in the program, twenty three existing FAB markets were provided up to $10,000 in available funding for incentives. These twenty outlets had the following accomplishments: Number of EBT/SNAP Transactions: 12,026 Number of Unique Shoppers: 4,163 unique shoppers with SNAP cards Amount of fresh, Florida grown fruits and vegetables purchased (FAB incentives): $162,216 Goal 3: In order to increase SNAP recipients' awareness of the importance of eating fresh fruits and vegetables, and familiarize participants with local and seasonal produce available at markets in Florida, FOG helped to facilitate regular, nutrition/taste education efforts at FAB markets with community partners and local chefs. 173 nutrition education initiatives occurred at 45 market partner sites between April 1, 2017 - March 31, 2018. FOG and UF's SNAP Ed Program developed and distributed flyers, banners, press releases, social media advertisements and website calendar information to notify customers of upcoming demos. The UF/IFAS SNAP Ed, partnered with FOG to conduct thirteen Eat with the Seasons Cooking Demonstrations at 13 participating FAB markets. Cooking demonstrations were conducted by the FNP county faculty. UF/IFAS SNAP Ed offered direct education to patrons using the Cooking Matters in Your Community curriculum. Cooking Matters In Your Community is a one-time cooking demonstration that incorporates key nutrition and food budgeting messages. Participants learn to cook and eat healthy on a budget. At each demonstration evaluations were conducted. These surveys indicated that participants either agreed or strongly agreed that they would intend on changing their eating behaviors, try new fruits and vegetables, practice new healthy cooking methods, leading to increased local f&v purchases Goal 4: FOG developed and provided the following standard marketing and promotional materials for each participating market to increase their outreach about FAB: FAB logo, social media graphics, tent, banner, bilingual flyers, posters, website and brochure. The statewide network including 37 farmers markets, 3 mobile market, 2 Farm Stands and 3 CSAs from April 1, 2017 - March 31, 2018 had the following accomplishments: Number of EBT/SNAP Transactions: 13,358 Number of Unique Shoppers: 4,990 unique shoppers with SNAP cards Amount of fresh, Florida grown fruits and vegetables purchased (FAB incentives): $178,401 Florida Department of Health, Healthiest Weight Florida worked with FOG to promote the FAB program in order to reduce the burden of obesity and chronic disease in Florida. FOG presented on Healthiest Weight Informational webinars, met in person and communicated via email/phone with Healthiest Weight representatives in FAB counties across the state. A representative from FDOH presented at the FAB Annual Training. Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) worked with FOG to promote FAB, good nutrition, health, and wellness of throughout the state. FDACS also assisted FOG in the development, dissemination, and evaluation of agricultural nutrition education material, supported program initiatives, and assisted in educating communities on the preparation of agricultural products produced in the state. Goal 5: In order to document and assess the process, challenges, and success of FAB program implementation and operations, FOG completed the following activities to evaluate the program's effectiveness in increasing fruit and vegetable purchases among SNAP recipients while simultaneously increasing revenue for Florida farmers: FOG, in partnership with Wholesome Wave and University of Delaware (UD) researchers, administered a field-based, multi-site randomized experiment to test the effectiveness of several incentive program innovations. The evaluation investigated: 1) If different incentive levels result in different fruit and vegetable purchase and consumption levels; 2) comparative outcomes of monetary and nonmonetary incentives; 3) the extent to which natural variation in site characteristics and management explains differences in incentive redemption rates and/or fruit and vegetable purchasing and consumption. The average amount a participant spent per month on all FV as part of their total grocery shopping purchases (not just those at the farmer's market) was $135.73 per household, which comprises 47.22% of their total expenditure on all food and drinks. Males typically consumed 3.52 cups of FV, including French fries, per day and females typically consumed 3.12 cups of FV, including French fries. The average amount of FV adults age 18-47 consumed was about 3.28 cups. Adults age 48-67 consumed 3.04 cups and older adults (68+) consumed about 3.05 cups. Overall, about 3.19 cups of FV were consumed by the sample as a whole. Findings in the final report indicate that randomly awarded, additional financial FV incentives at FMs for SNAP participants have statistically significant, positive effects on FV consumption, when examining the full RCT sample of FMs. Non-monetary incentives also have a statistically significant, positive effect on FV consumption, also when examining the full RCT sample. Additional research of longer-term effects is recommended to more completely understand the impacts of FV incentives on BMI. Statistically significant outcomes were not identified for the RCT at FOG FMs, due to sample size limitations. An incentive program that increases SNAP shoppers' ability to purchase additional FV should be part of future program policies for this population, given the program's effect on creating more equitable access for those whose food budgets are otherwise limited.? FAB Annual Reports - Thirty four market partners representing forty five outlets provided an annual report to FOG outlining the expenditure of funds, challenges and successes that occurred during the period and feedback on annual FAB Training Workshop topics. FOG reviewed, maintained the reports and verified appropriate use of funds. Summary of Challenges - Outreach/Promotion: experienced difficulty getting the word out, advertising and promotion, receiving support from local agencies; difficulty getting county or local support for FAB;. Programmatic: negative biases against SNAP shoppers and our markets that support them; learning new data entry website; lack of paid staff and volunteers; too few farmers; EBT equipment expenses; too many responsibilities; transitioning from resellers market to producer only; confusing and cumbersome amount of scrip; lack of public transportation; violence in the community surrounding the market. Summary of Successes - Outreach/Promotion: community food events; partnerships with local agencies and organizations; hiring local SNAP recipients as market ambassadors and to canvas their communities with flyers; numerous articles in local newspapers, radio, magazines and TV. Programmatic: increased vendor participation; improved visibility at market with banners, signage, FAB tents and flyers; loyal return customers; consistent flow of new customers;nutrition education efforts; FAB 5 frequent shopper (loyalty) card.
Publications
- Type:
Websites
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
www.freshaccessbucks.com
|
Progress 04/01/16 to 03/31/17
Outputs
Target Audience:Fresh Access Bucks' (FAB) targeted 3,178,027 Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients throughout Florida with outlets in 18 Florida counties: 32 farmer's markets, one mobile market and two CSAs from April 1, 2016 - March 31, 2017. Within these 18 counties are 2,307,625 SNAP recipients, which represent approximately 73% of all SNAP recipients in Florida (2014). These counties had populations between 9.6%-24.9% below the poverty line and 55.6%-71.5% of overweight or obese adults. The participating outlets geographically span from the Florida Panhandle to Homestead in the South, with a peak growing season from October thru May. Most FAB markets operate year round. FAB strategically targets farmers markets in and around food deserts, low-income communities, and along transportation routes, that feature Florida farmers. Many of the FAB market partner sites are located in cities with population percentages below the poverty line that are greater than the 17.2% Florida average in the 2012 census. SNAP recipients are the main beneficiaries of this project. Changes/Problems: FAB's Program Manager Carmen Franz, left FOG in September 2016 to pursue a position of farm manager. Fortunately, qualified, existing FOG staff already familiar with the program had the availability and interest to fill her role. Mary Hathaway and Katie Delaney, both existing FAB Coordinators were hired as a full-time FAB Co Managers in September 2016. FOG's part-time FAB Program Coordinator hired through the Farmers Market SNAP Support Grant (FMSSG), Kayvon Bahramian was fired in November, 2016. An already existing FOG employee, Xanna Prentice, was hired in his stead. FOG's Accounting team was fired and transitioned out in December, 2016. Ongoing issues with grant reporting and financial submission occurred until new accounting personnel were properly trained. The yearly financial budget for FAB activities remains unapproved internally, leaving FAB program staff apprehensive on executing grant directives. Although has been difficult keeping staff positions filled due to increasing responsibilities among FOG professional staff members, we are confident the addition of another new FAB coordinator in April 2017 will help maintain the current level of support and performance. The FAB team strives to expand the network intelligently and efficiently while maintaining a high level of support for our current partners. We had to think creatively about bringing in new markets and underestimated the amount of time it would take to do background data collection and due diligence on all applications. Florida does not have a state association of farmers markets or definition of a true farmers market. This indirectly requires FAB staff to spend more time researching and ensuring direct marketing Florida farmers are present at potential FAB markets and provide support to MMs for recruiting additional farmer vendors. We received a great deal of applications that did not meet our network requirements, most notably, ones that were not accessible to low income populations, did not have Florida farmers or a transparent, state/farm of origin labeling system. The availability of the free EBT equipment program from the Farmers Market Coalition (FMC) ended in November, 2016, greatly impacting the ability of markets to accept SNAP at their market. This in turn, halted the addition of partner markets to the FAB program. The distribution of SNAP benefits by FDCF changed from a 15 day cycle to a 28 day cycle, and there have been glitches. More than one of our patrons visited a FAB market only to find that they had no access to their benefits until the 29th of the month. Moreover, the number of people on SNAP and its funding in Florida declined. Due to limited internal capacity and funding, the following markets are no longer participating in the FAB program: Las Olas Farmers Market was unable to secure their location and the market dissolved; Verde Farm Market and CSA was closed due to lack of interest from SNAP participants and an inability to obtain free EBT equipment; Slow Food Gulf Coast, the fiscal agent for the FAB program at Palafox Farmers market was no longer able to support the implementation of the program and as a result the market ceased participation in FAB. Urban Growers experienced continued delays with getting their Henrietta Urban Farm and Market and Riviera Beach Farmers Market's SNAP and FAB programs started. They continue to experience a significant deal of street violence, staff turnover and vandalism at their urban farm. They have yet to have any SNAP transactions at either market and are no longer a part of the FAB program. The following partners experienced technological difficulties with faulty EBT equipment that hindered their ability to process SNAP transactions and provide dependable service to SNAP recipients: Dania Beach PATCH Market, Berry Good Farms on the Go, Venice Farmers Market, High Springs Farmers Market, Las Olas Farmers Market, Brevard County Farmers Market, Sweetwater Organic Farm, Market, and CSA. FAB Markets continue to express that EBT equipment expenses are a financial burden. Moreover, inadequate number of paid market staff hinders their ability to do sufficient outreach to SNAP recipients to inform them of the program, fundraise independently for their SNAP efforts and conduct nutrition education efforts. Transportation to and from FAB markets continues to be a barrier to participation across the state. Certain FAB markets lack infrastructure, such as bathrooms, electricity, large dishwashing sinks and smooth, durable and easily cleanable floors, that contribute to logistical complications for nutrition education efforts. In most circumstances, they lack funding to make necessary upgrades. FAB Consultant Kellie O'Dare Wilson announced in February, 2017 that she is transitioning out of UWF to work in Tallahassee as the new Chief of Tobacco Prevention for the State Surgeon General and is no longer able to continue with the FAB evaluation. She will wrap up the draft and send summary of what was left outstanding. To continue her work, FOG staff has contracted with Professor John Diaz of UF to continue a mixed method evaluation. The University of Florida's SNAP Ed program experienced delays and funding issues, resulting in a transition from the Horticulture Department to the Family Nutrition Program (FNP). Currently, the nutrition education initiative is being handled by local, county FNP agents with great success and high praise for having local and sustained engagement between markets and extension agents. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? FAB Partner Trainings and Community Info Sessions - FOG co-organized community planning sessions with the ten new partners where local government agencies, nonprofits, community members, market staff and vendors participated in FAB trainings and information sessions before the program began. These trainings included USDA regulations for authorized SNAP retailers to ensure they are in compliance with all relevant SNAP operating requirements. FAB Site Visits - FOG conducted site visits with all 33 partners to monitor procedures and ensure standardization. Statewide FAB Training - FOG hosted an in-person, day-long training for professional development in Orlando, FL for twenty five market partners in September 2016. Workshop topics included FM Tracks Data Collection, Florida Specific Evaluation with Kellie O'Dare Wilson, Best Practices for Fundraising and working with Local Government, Florida Agency Resources for Farmers Markets and FAB Branding Campaign & Effective Outreach. FAB Technical Support - FOG provided technical support to project partners to ensure they had the capacity to implement the project and comply with USDA regulations through email, webinars and phone calls. Monthly, Regional Conference Calls - The same day and time of the 1st week of every month, FOG hosts three separate regional check-in calls with FAB markets: North, Central and South. It's an opportunity to hear FAB updates, share what's going well/not going well and talk to other MMs. One staff person from each market is required to attend. SNAP/EBT Equipment Technical Support - FOG provided training, technical assistance and materials to farmers markets statewide in the SNAP merchant application process, free EBT equipment grants, EBT Service provider considerations, best practices for SNAP acceptance at market and for the implementation of the incentive program FAB. FM Tracks Data Collection - FAB markets received training on the innovative iOS application (app) called FM Tracks, developed by Case Western Reserve University, which assists with data collection and monitoring at market. Trainings included one-on-one technical support via the phone/email, webinars, hand-outs, and in-person workshops. The app ensures that FAB markets effectively track progress and growth over the course of the grant. Case Western University brings expertise and a track record in project evaluation to analyze variations across sites annually for their relationship to site-level indicators (e.g. transactions), site characteristics, and community demographics. FAB Toolkit - FOG developed, refined, updated and shared materials with project partners including but not limited to the following FAB toolkit components: FAB welcome packet, program descriptions to communicate to potential partner markets, mid and season-end report forms, data collection tools, FAB MM guide, vendor guide, flier templates, recommended signage, vendor agreements, contracts for FOG, WW, and partner markets, accounting and recording keeping templates, promotional materials, nutrition education ideas, evaluations, fundraising ideas, Florida farmers market regulations, and EBT Service Provider and Payment Option information. FAB Network Growth and Collaboration - FOG provided the following opportunities for FAB markets to connect and share challenges and successes: FOG shared FAB partner contact information so markets can call/email one another. Closed Facebook Group for our FABulous partners - "FAB Partner Markets" This group provides a forum for FAB MMs to connect, pose questions, stay connected, share best practices, and give helpful tips and updates on the program. Public Facebook Page for FAB - "Fresh Access Bucks" This is our public facebook page for the statewide program. Our partners and vendors use this page to share the SNAP incentive program with eligible audiences who are otherwise not being reached. Visit another FAB Market - We encourage our FAB partners to visit each other's markets and see how the program operates across the state. FAB partners with Wholesome Wave (WW), a national leader in nutrition incentive programming. WW is transforming individual, community, economic, and environmental health by facilitating a national network of nutrition incentive practitioners dedicated to leveraging simple solutions at the local level into long term policy change. WW works with FAB to build the capacity of network members to deliver nutrition incentive program benefits to their customers, farmers, and communities. As network members, FAB markets participate in a community of innovation and learning, have their impact aggregated as part of a national data set, and serve as policy advocates. National Nutrition Incentive Network listserv: FAB markets can submit questions/comments on a national listserv. FAB Partners have access to Wholesome Wave's Online resource library. ? Randomized Control Trial (RCT) - Site managers participating in the RCT received training, outreach materials, a staffed phone number (including weekends) from University of Delaware prior to study initiation. Wholesome Wave attended FAB's Annual Summit in September 2016 to train and refresh skills for MMs on how to use FM Tracks and implement the RCT in January 2017. Additional trainings and technical assistance were provided in person (through on-site site visits in January 2017) and over the phone by Wholesome Wave and University of Delaware staff. Additionally, the 10 MMs at RCT sites received a separate webinar training on RCT procedures in December 2016. Because participant selection, and the incentive levels they received, were based on a lottery system, it was important for program operators at each site to understand how to conduct the lottery, as well as gather appropriate data. RCT-related trainings, conducted through webinars, were designed to review the steps for enrolling people into the lottery, and to help program operators understand how to distribute and record incentives distributed. The RCT Lead Investigator, Dr. Allison Karpyn of the University of Delaware, conducted these training webinars in coordination with Wholesome Wave. In January 2017, Wholesome Wave and Florida Organic Growers staff traveled across 3 RCT sites to conduct site visits to observe and provide technical assistance related to FM Tracks and the RCT. Markets visits occurred across the northern portion of the state including Alachua County Farmers Market, and Riverside Arts Market. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The FAB Team utilized the following tools to communicate to external audiences about our work: FOG Website - currently averages 2,500 unique (new) visitors a month. (www.foginfo.org) Fresh Access Bucks webpage (www.FreshAccessBucks.com) - 3,912 unique (new) views from Apr 1, 2015 - Mar 30, 2016 (average 326 per month). FOG's monthly eNewsletter - distributed to more than 4,700 people Social Media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Blog) General Media (through press releases, specific to the local media and radio) Market level community partnerships get the word out about the program at the local level. FAB promotional materials and strategic brand - FAB logo, social media graphics, tent, banner, bi-lingual flyers, posters and brochure. The FAB team made the following outreach efforts about our work (over 135 individuals/organizations contacted): Sent FAB flyers and SNAP Tech Support flyers to all Department of Children and Families' regional offices statewide and over 160 farmers markets on the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). Connected FAB partners to organizations surrounding our markets that sign individuals up for SNAP benefits. Informed the following organizations and agencies about FAB: farmers certified by Quality Certification Services in Florida, Farm Credit of Florida, Farmers Market Coalition, Fresh From Florida, Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education, Natural Resources Conservation Services, Florida A&M University, Florida Food and Farm Magazine, Edible Magazine Communities statewide, Citrus Industry Magazine, Florida Grower, Florida Agritourism Association, Florida Department of Health, Florida Community Loan Fund, Slow Food Chapters statewide, University of Florida IFAS Extension Offices statewide. ? What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Goal 1: Expand program into new markets - Over the course of the grant period we will add 30 new markets (10 new each year). A new market in our network receives $5,000 for incentives in their first year. Continue to identify new market partners that meet criteria on an ongoing basis. Enter into contracts with 10 new partners. Schedule community planning sessions with local government agencies, nonprofits and local residents to discuss FAB and collect feedback on its implementation and outreach in their community for 10 new partners. Schedule training sessions with MMs and Vendors for 10 new partners. MMs will sign formal contracts with all participating vendors that state that they will comply with SNAP and FAB program regulations. Compliance with this agreement will be enforced and monitored by FOG. Host a Farmers Market Crop Up, a one day event to provide resources, educational workshops and networking for Florida farmers market managers that are interested in becoming SNAP authorized and joining the FAB program. Goal 2: Enhance program at current markets - Understanding that established markets that have been participating in FAB for one or more years have higher participation rates in the program, FOG will increase the amount of incentives awarded to these markets up to $10,000 per year. Continue to monitor and support program implementation at 50 partner sites. Evaluate the 40 current market partners to best understand their needs for program enhancement. Double incentive budget for markets that have participated in FAB for one year or more and show need for growth. Host the Third annual FAB Training with 45 partners in Orlando, FL. Continue to work on five-year strategic plan to continue FAB incentive programming beyond the scope of this grant based on the input of stakeholders. MMs will sign formal contracts with all participating vendors that state that they will comply with SNAP and FAB program regulations. Compliance with this agreement will be enforced and monitored by FOG. Continue to develop, refine and update materials including but not limited to: program descriptions to communicate to potential partner markets; mid and season-end report forms; data collection tools; Fresh Access Bucks toolkit (MM guide, vendor guide, flier templates, recommended signage); vendor agreements; contracts for FOG, WW, and partner markets. Goal 3: To increase SNAP recipients' awareness of the importance of eating fresh fruits and vegetables, and familiarize participants with local and seasonal produce available at markets in Florida. Market partners will conduct monthly nutrition/taste education initiatives. SNAP-ED will coordinate one cooking demo per market partner for 24 markets. Market partners will assist SNAP-ED with the scheduling and location of the cooking demos. SNAP-ED, FOG and market partners will conduct outreach and advertising for the nutrition education initiatives through press releases, flyers and social media. SNAP-ED will come equipped with all necessary consumables, groceries and staff to conduct the demos and provide applicable recipe and nutrition cards. FOG will supply materials necessary to conduct cooking demonstrations such as tables, hot plates, pots and pans for 10 new markets. SNAP-Ed will collect evaluation data and share results with FOG and FAB partners. Goal 4: Enhance marketing to increase visibility of FAB through a targeted promotional campaign. Continue to utilize the following tools to communicate to external audiences about our work: - General Media (through press releases, specific to the local media and radio) - Market level community partnerships get the word out about the program at the local level. - Distribute FAB promotional materials and communicate our strategic brand to partner markets- FAB logo, social media graphics, tent, banner, bi-lingual flyers, posters and brochure. List market partners on www.FreshAccessBucks.com website Create downloadable fliers for each partner market available online at www.FreshAccessBucks.com Continue to participate in regular calls with the Florida Department of Agriculture, Division of Food, Nutrition and Wellness and Wholesome Wave to collaborate and share information. Continue to connect FAB partners to organizations surrounding our markets that sign individuals up for SNAP benefits. Continue to serve as a liaison between state, local and federal agencies and organizations to develop and implement programs that promote community health and wellness. Goal 5: Evaluate FAB's Progress and Outcomes Through partner organization WW's Online Data Portal, MMs input data weekly onto FM Tracks to monitor the participation and growth of the FAB program. Data collected and provided through this portal includes: - # EBT transactions towards local, fresh fruits and vegetables - # new SNAP recipient customers purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables; - SNAP dollars spent on locally grown fruits and vegetables at Florida farmer booths; - FAB Incentive dollars distributed to SNAP customers and redeemed by farmers for the purchase of more Florida grown fruits and vegetables - Anonymous, unique SNAP shopper ID (optional) MMs complete Mid-Year and Annual FAB Reports for FOG Continue to monitor data collection at partner market sites. Data analysis of statewide Fresh Access Bucks program. Independent Evaluations: - Work with University of Florida Professor John Diaz on mixed method study on FAB in Florida. - Use evaluations to inform future program planning. - FOG Website - currently averages 2,600 unique (new) visitors a month. (www.foginfo.org) - Fresh Access Bucks webpage (www.FreshAccessBucks.com) - 5,582 unique (new) views from 4/1/16 - 3/31/17 (average 426 per month). - FOG's monthly eNewsletter - distributed to more than 4,700 people - Social Media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Blog)
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Statewide from April 1, 2016 - March 31, 2017, FAB had 10,136 SNAP transactions, 2,110 new shoppers with SNAP cards, $135,515 SNAP and $124,980 FAB incentive sales (total SNAP + FAB sales - $260,495), and $133,911 SNAP and $123,953 FAB incentives redeemed (total SNAP + FAB redeemed - $257,864). Goal 1: 9 new farmers markets and 1 CSA received training, up to $5,000 in incentive funding and materials to implement FAB between April 1, 2016 - March 31, 2017. These outlets had the following accomplishments: 617 EBT/SNAP Transactions 155 Unique SNAP Shoppers $3,642 fresh, Florida grown fruits and vegetables purchased Goal 2: Understanding that established markets that have been participating in FAB for one or more years have higher participation rates in the program, twenty existing FAB markets were provided up to $10,000 in available funding for incentives. These twenty outlets had the following accomplishments: 9,159 EBT/SNAP Transactions 2,155 Unique SNAP Shoppers $121,339 fresh, Florida grown fruits and vegetables purchased Goal 3: FOG helped to facilitate regular, nutrition/taste education efforts at FAB markets with community partners and local chefs. Two FAB partners piloted our Eat with the Seasons Cooking Demonstrations with the University of Florida's IFAS Family Nutrition Program (FNP), the Snap-Ed implementing agency in Florida. 168 nutrition education initiatives occurred at 33 market partner sites The UF/IFAS SNAP Ed, partnered with FOG to conduct fourteen Eat with the Seasons Cooking Demonstrations at 11 participating FAB markets. UF/IFAS SNAP Ed offered direct education to patrons using the Cooking Matters in Your Community curriculum. At each demonstration evaluations were conducted. These surveys indicated that participants either agreed or strongly agreed that they would intend on changing their eating behaviors, try new fruits and vegetables, practice new healthy cooking methods, leading to increased local f&v purchases. Goal 4: FOG developed and provided standard marketing and promotional materials for each participating market to increase their outreach about FAB: FAB logo, social media graphics, tent, banner, bi-lingual flyers, posters, website and brochure. The statewide network including 33 farmers markets, 1 mobile market and 2 CSAs from April 1, 2016 - March 31, 2017 had the following accomplishments: 10,136 EBT/SNAP Transactions 2,110 Unique SNAP Shoppers $124,980 fresh, Florida grown fruits and vegetables purchased Florida Department of Health, Healthiest Weight Florida worked with FOG to promote the FAB program in order to reduce the burden of obesity and chronic disease in Florida. FOG presented on Healthiest Weight Informational webinars, met in person and communicated via email/phone with Healthiest Weight representatives in FAB counties across the state. Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) worked with FOG to promote FAB, good nutrition, health, and wellness of throughout the state: Participated in regular meetings to inform each other on program progress and implementation. Worked together to reach out to 173 listed farmers markets in the state to inform of SNAP tech support and FAB program details. Active markets were added to Florida's Roadmap to Living Healthy online (Bryan Norris, FDACS) Active and potential markets were added to community market locator tool on FDACS website (Carl Penn, FDACS). Explored ways to co-message to SNAP Households through existing efforts. Goal 5: FOG completed the following activities to evaluate the program's effectiveness in increasing fruit and vegetable purchases among SNAP recipients while simultaneously increasing revenue for Florida farmers: 1) FOG, in partnership with WW and University of Delaware (UD) researchers, is administering a field-based, multi-site randomized control trial (RCT) experiment to test the effectiveness of several incentive program innovations. The evaluation investigates: 1) If different incentive levels result in different fruit and vegetable purchase and consumption levels; 2) comparative outcomes of monetary and nonmonetary incentives; 3) the extent to which natural variation in site characteristics and management explains differences in incentive redemption rates and/or fruit and vegetable purchasing and consumption. From September to November 2016, UD research partners administered the RCT at 21 sites in 9 states outside of Florida. Another 3-month enrollment round began in January 2017 with 14 sites across 4 states including 10 Florida markets. Between January 2016 and April 2017, 818 enrollment tickets were received from potential participants from all FOG FMs participating in the RCT. A total of 2,672 survey invitations were sent via email or text to these first-time participants, and to those who agreed to repeat the survey in subsequent months. Forty-seven percent of those surveys were completed. The number of first-time completers (baseline survey data) of the survey, between September 2015 and April 2017, was 607. In total, 646 incentives were issued through the survey's randomization process. These incentives were redeemed a total of 668 times at farmer's markets, since each incentive could be used more than once in the month it was won. Of those who won the incentives, 334 vouchers (51.70%) were redeemed at least once. Those who had an incentive spent an average of $83.33 per visit to the farmer's market. After we have completed RCT data collection (toward the end of the FINI grant in 2017/2018), research partners will be publishing outcome findings that include a complete assessment of incentive impact on F&V consumption, natural variation, examining the impact of external factors such as location (rural, in a "food desert", etc.), incentive program operations (such as hiring status of MM), or other variables on nutrition incentive programs' success and reach. 2) FOG worked with consultant, Dr. O'Dare Wilson to design, implement, analyze, and report on a mixed-method to examine FAB Market Manager's (MM) experiences with the FAB program. Dr. O'Dare Wilson administered a brief, web-based questionnaire to participating markets. We asked questions regarding the perceptions and characteristics of the market, barriers to participation in the FAB program, and potential solutions to barriers. In addition, we queried the MM regarding the characteristics necessary to successfully manage and grow the program. Outcomes and final data will be shared once published. 3) FAB Annual Reports - Twenty five market partners representing 33 outlets provided an annual report to FOG outlining the expenditure of funds, challenges and successes that occurred during the period and feedback on annual FAB Training Workshop topics. FOG reviewed, maintained the reports and verified appropriate use of funds. Summary of Challenges - Outreach/Promotion: difficult to get the word out and explain how the program works; difficulty getting county support for FAB. Programmatic: negative biases against SNAP shoppers and our markets that support them; learning new data entry website; lack of paid staff and volunteers; too few farmers; EBT equipment expenses; too many responsibilities; transitioning from resellers market to producer only; confusing and cumbersome amount of scrip; lack of public transportation; violence in the community surrounding the market. Summary of Successes - Outreach/Promotion: community food events; partnerships with local agencies and organizations; hiring local SNAP recipients as market ambassadors and to canvas their communities with flyers; numerous articles in local newspapers, radio, magazines and TV. Programmatic: Increased vendor participation; improved visibility at market with banners, signage, FAB tents and flyers; loyal return customers; consistent flow of new customers;nutrition education efforts; FAB 5 frequent shopper (loyalty) card.
Publications
- Type:
Other
Status:
Under Review
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Karpyn, Allison, Sara Grajeda, Rui Wang, Tara Tracy, Vanessa Santiago and Rosymar
Magana. Ladder for Growth: A National Network to Build Capacity and Test Innovative
Strategies for Healthy Food Initiatives, Florida Certified Organic Growers and
Consumers, Year 1 and 2 Report. University of Delaware, Center for Research in
Education and Social Policy. Newark, DE. June 2016. karpyn@udel.edu.
|
Progress 04/01/15 to 03/31/16
Outputs
Target Audience:Fresh Access Bucks (FAB) targeted 2,307,625 Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients in 15 Florida counties with 28 farmers markets and two CSAs from April 1, 2015 - March 30, 2016. These 15 counties (2,307,625 individuals) represent approximately 65% of all SNAP recipients in Florida (2013). Twenty of these outlets were FAB markets prior to April 1, 2015. The remaining eight markets and two CSAs were added in Year One of FINIP. These counties had populations between 9.6%-24.9% below the poverty line and 55.6%-71.5% of overweight or obese adults. The participating outlets geographically span from the Pensacola in the Florida Panhandle to Homestead in the South, with a peak growing season from October thru May. Most FAB markets operate year round. FAB strategically targets farmers markets in and around food deserts, low-income communities, and along transportation routes, that feature Florida farmers. Many of the FAB market partner sites are located in cities with population percentages below the poverty line that are greater than the 17.2% Florida average in the 2012 census. SNAP recipients are the main beneficiaries of this project. Changes/Problems: FOG's Director of Education & Outreach, Laura Lavid, left FOG in April 2015 to pursue a position in Denver as a means of continuing to serve as an advocate for equitable access to healthy foods. Fortunately, qualified, existing FOG staff already familiar with the program had the availability and interest to fill her role. Mary Hathaway, an existing FOG staff person, was hired as a part-time FAB Coordinator in May 2015. Carmen Franz assumed the remainder of Ms. Lavid's roles and was promoted to FAB Program Manager. Carmen Franz manages the FAB team that consists of three part-time FAB Coordinators. FOG's full-time Fresh Access Bucks Coordinator hired with FINIP funds in April 2015, Cori Keene, left FOG to pursue a position abroad in the September of 2015. Katie Delaney was hired as our new FAB Coordinator in October 2015. Although has been difficult keeping staff positions filled due to increasing responsibilities among FOG professional staff members, we are confident the addition of another new FAB Program Coordinator through the Farmers Market SNAP Support Grant (FMSSG), will ease the workload. Kayvon Bahramian was hired as FOG's third FAB Coordinator in January 2016. Although the grant award was on April 1, 2015, it took over three months to get everything set up with the USDA and receive FINIP funding. Additionally, the provisional indirect rate agreement was not completed until over 13 months after the award date. The FAB team strives to expand the network intelligently and efficiently while maintaining a high level of support for our current partners. We had to think creatively about bringing in new markets and underestimated the amount of time it would take to do background data collection and due diligence on all applications. Florida does not have a state association of farmers markets or definition of a true farmers market. This indirectly requires FAB staff to spend more time researching and ensuring direct marketing, Florida farmers are present at potential FAB markets and provide support to MMs for recruiting additional farmer vendors. We received a great deal of applications that did not meet our network requirements, most notably, ones that were not accessible to low income populations, did not have Florida farmers or a transparent, state/farm of origin labeling system. The following partners experienced delays in returning grant contracts to the FAB team which delayed our ability to disseminate funding: Dig Local Network, Florida Organic Growers for the Alachua County Farmers Market, Urban Growers, Palafox Farmers Market, and the Las Olas Farmers Markets. The distribution of SNAP benefits by FDCF changed from a 15 day cycle to a 28 day cycle, and there have been glitches. More than one of our patrons visited only to find that they had no access to their benefits until the 29th of the month. Moreover, the number of people on SNAP and its funding in Florida declined. Transitioning between two data collection tools (Wholesome Wave's Data Portal to FM Tracks) created some complications and confusion for data entry. We are working on fixing errors and training partners on the new system. Due to limited internal capacity and funding, the Urban Oasis Project stopped accepting EBT for two farmers markets in Miami-Dade county: Amelia Earhart Farmers Market and the Miami Springs Farmers Market. Similarly, the Farm to Family Mobile market stopped accepting EBT and participating in FAB. Urban Growers experienced delays with getting their Henrietta Urban Farm and Market and Riviera Beach Farmers Market's SNAP and FAB programs started. They continue to experience a significant deal of street violence, staff turnover and vandalism at their urban farm. The following three markets decided to not accept SNAP or FAB after FOG was awarded the FINIP grant due to limited internal capacity and/or staff changes: Live Oak Farmers Market, Oak Ridge Farmers Market and the Seaside Farmers Market. FOG substituted cancelled/delayed markets with the following four outlets: North Port Farmers Market, Riverside Arts Market, Adrienne Arsht Center Market and Verde Farm CSA. The following partners experienced technological difficulties with faulty EBT equipment that hindered their ability to process SNAP transactions and provide dependable service to SNAP recipients: Dania Beach PATCH Market, Berry Good Farms on the Go, and the Farm to Family Mobile Market which stopped accepting EBT and participating in FAB. FAB Markets continue to express that EBT equipment expenses are a financial burden. Moreover, inadequate number of paid market staff hinders their ability to do sufficient outreach to SNAP recipients to inform them of the program, fundraise independently for their SNAP efforts and conduct nutrition education efforts. Transportation to and from FAB markets continues to be a barrier to participation across the state. Certain FAB markets lack infrastructure, such as bathrooms, electricity, large dishwashing sinks and smooth, durable and easily cleanable floors, that contribute to logistical complications for nutrition education efforts. In most circumstances, they lack funding to make necessary upgrades. FOG's Communications Director experienced delays in getting the InDesign software updated on her computer to efficiently make edits to promotional materials. Due to this delay, flyers, posters, brochures or postcards for FAB partners were not completed as quickly as we originally anticipated. The software issues have been resolved. The University of Florida's SNAP Ed program experienced delays in hiring a new coordinator to facilitate the Eat with the Seasons Cooking Demos. The new coordinator started in February of 2016. Moreover, SNAP Ed staff did not conduct an evaluation for 1 of 2 pilots due to a miscommunication amongst themselves. We are certain the pilot projects have provided ample information for how to improve and move forward with the upcoming 24 demos. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? FAB Partner Trainings and Community Info Sessions - FOG co-organized community planning sessions with the ten new partners where local government agencies, nonprofits, community members, market staff and vendors participated in FAB trainings and information sessions before the program began. These trainings included USDA regulations for authorized SNAP retailers to ensure they are in compliance with all relevant SNAP operating requirements. FAB Site Visits - FOG conducted site visits with all thirty partners to monitor procedures and ensure standardization. Statewide FAB Training - FOG hosted an in-person, day long training for professional development in Gainesville, FL for thirty market partners in September 2015. Workshop topics included FM Tracks Data Collection, Florida Specific Evaluation with Kellie O'Dare Wilson, Best Practices for Fundraising and working with Local Government, Florida Agency Resources for Farmers Markets and FAB Branding Campaign & Effective Outreach. FAB Technical Support - FOG provided technical support to project partners to ensure they had the capacity to implement the project and comply with USDA regulations through email, webinars and phone calls. Monthly, Regional Conference Calls - The same day and time of the 1st week of every month, FOG hosts three separate regional check-in calls with FAB markets: North, Central and South. It's an opportunity to hear FAB updates, share what's going well/not going well and talk to other MMs. One staff person from each market is required to attend. SNAP/EBT Equipment Technical Support - FOG provided training, technical assistance and materials to farmers markets statewide in the SNAP merchant application process, free EBT equipment grants, EBT Service provider considerations, best practices for SNAP acceptance at market and for the implementation of the incentive program FAB. FM Tracks Data Collection - FAB markets received training on the innovative iOS application (app) called FM Tracks, developed by Case Western Reserve University, which assists with data collection and monitoring at market. Trainings included one-on-one technical support via the phone/email, webinars, hand-outs, and in-person workshops. The app ensures that FAB markets effectively track progress and growth over the course of the grant. Case Western University brings expertise and a track record in project evaluation to analyze variations across sites annually for their relationship to site-level indicators (e.g. transactions), site characteristics, and community demographics. FAB Toolkit - FOG developed, refined, updated and shared materials with project partners including but not limited to the following FAB toolkit components: FAB welcome packet, program descriptions to communicate to potential partner markets, mid and season-end report forms, data collection tools, FAB MM guide, vendor guide, flier templates, recommended signage, vendor agreements, contracts for FOG, WW, and partner markets, accounting and recording keeping templates, promotional materials, nutrition education ideas, evaluations, fundraising ideas, Florida farmers market regulations, and EBT Service Provider and Payment Option information. FAB Network Growth and Collaboration - FOG provided the following opportunities for FAB markets to connect and share challenges and successes: FOG shared FAB partner contact information so markets can Call/Email one another. Closed Facebook Group for our FABulous partners - "FAB Partner Markets" This group provides a forum for FAB MMs to connect, pose questions, stay connected, share best practices, and give helpful tips and updates on the program. Public Facebook Page for FAB - "Fresh Access Bucks" This is our public facebook page for the statewide program. Our partners and vendors use this page to share the SNAP incentive program with eligible audiences who are otherwise not being reached. Visit another FAB Market - We encourage our FAB partners to visit each other's markets and see how the program operates across the state. National Nutrition Incentive Network:FAB partners with Wholesome Wave (WW),a national leader in nutrition incentive programming. WW is transforming individual, community, economic, and environmental health by facilitating a national network of nutrition incentive practitioners dedicated to leveraging simple solutions at the local level into long term policy change. WW works with FAB to build the capacity of network members to deliver nutrition incentive program benefits to their customers, farmers, and communities. As network members, FAB markets participate in a community of innovation and learning, have their impact aggregated as part of a national data set, and serve as policy advocates. National Nutrition Incentive Network listserv: FAB markets can submit questions/comments on a national listserv. FAB Partners have access to Wholesome Wave's Online resource library. Randomized Control Trial (RCT) - Site managers participating in the RCT received training, outreach materials, a staffed phone number (including weekends) from University of Delaware prior to study initiation. When FM Tracks was initially released, Wholesome Wave attended FAB's Annual Summit in September 2015 to train MMs how to use FM Tracks and implement the RCT in January 2016. Additional trainings and technical assistance were provided in person (through on-site site visits in January 2016) and over the phone by Wholesome Wave and University of Delaware staff. Additionally, the 10 MMs at RCT sites received a separate webinar training on RCT procedures in December 2015. Because participant selection, and the incentive levels they received, were based on a lottery system, it was important for program operators at each site to understand how to conduct the lottery, as well as gather appropriate data. RCT-related trainings, conducted through webinars, were designed to review the steps for enrolling people into the lottery, and to help program operators understand how to distribute and record incentives distributed. The RCT Lead Investigator, Dr. Allison Karpyn of the University of Delaware, conducted these training webinars in coordination with Wholesome Wave. In January 2016, Wholesome Wave and Florida Organic Growers staff traveled across 6 RCT sites to conduct site visits to observe and provide technical assistance related to FM Tracks and the RCT. Markets visits occurred across the southern portion of the state including Englewood Farmers Market, Brevard Farmers Market, Upper East Side Farmers Market, Southwest Community Farmers Market, Verde Community Farms, and Bee Heaven Farms at the Pinecrest Farmers Market. A second site visit is planned for January 2017 at remaining markets in central and northern parts of the Florida. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The FAB Team utilized the following tools to communicate to external audiences about our work: FOG Website - currently averages 2,500 unique (new) visitors a month. (www.foginfo.org) Fresh Access Bucks webpage (www.FreshAccessBucks.com) - 3,912 unique (new) views from Apr 1, 2015 - Mar 30, 2016 (average 326 per month). FOG's monthly eNewsletter - distributed to more than 3,900 people Social Media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Blog) General Media (through press releases, specific to the local media and radio) Market level community partnerships get the word out about the program at the local level. FAB promotional materials and strategic brand - FAB logo, social media graphics, tent, banner, bi-lingual flyers, posters and brochure. The FAB team made the following outreach efforts about our work (over 135 individuals/organizations contacted): Sent FAB flyers and SNAP Tech Support flyer to all Department of Children and Families' regional offices statewide. Connected FAB partners to organizations surrounding our markets that sign individuals up for SNAP benefits. Informed the following organizations and agencies about FAB: farmers certified by Quality Certification Services in Florida, Farm Credit of Florida, Farmers Market Coalition, Fresh From Florida, Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education, Natural Resources Conservation Services, Florida A&M University, Florida Food and Farm Magazine, Edible Magazine Communities statewide, Citrus Industry Magazine, Florida Grower, Florida Agritourism Association, Florida Department of Health, Florida Community Loan Fund, Slow Food Chapters statewide, University of Florida IFAS Extension Offices statewide. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Goal 1: Expand program into new markets - Over the course of the grant period we will add 30 new markets (10 new each year). A new market in our network receives $5,000 for incentives in their first year. Continue to identify new market partners that meet criteria on an ongoing basis. Enter into contracts with 10 new partners. Schedule community planning sessions with local government agencies, nonprofits and local residents to discuss FAB and collect feedback on its implementation and outreach in their community for 10 new partners. Schedule training sessions with MMs and Vendors for 10 new partners. MMs will sign formal contracts with all participating vendors that state that they will comply with SNAP and FAB program regulations. Compliance with this agreement will be enforced and monitored by FOG. Continue to work in partnership with University of West Florida (UWF) and a matching grant support from UWF's Center for Research and Economic Opportunity to potentially increase FAB program expansion into additional NW FL farmers markets (considered a high-need, under-serviced area), and to increase outreach, awareness, and participation of new SNAP shoppers at existing markets . Goal 2: Enhance program at current markets - Understanding that established markets that have been participating in FAB for one or more years have higher participation rates in the program, FOG will increase the amount of incentives awarded to these markets up to $10,000 per year. Continue to monitor and support program implementation at 40 partner sites. Evaluate the 30 current market partners to best understand their needs for program enhancement. Double incentive budget for markets that have participated in FAB for one year or more and show need for growth. Host the Second annual FAB Training with 40 partners in Orlando, FL. Continue to work on five-year strategic plan to continue FAB incentive programming beyond the scope of this grant based on the input of stakeholders. MMs will sign formal contracts with all participating vendors that state that they will comply with SNAP and FAB program regulations. Compliance with this agreement will be enforced and monitored by FOG. Continue to develop, refine and update materials including but not limited to: program descriptions to communicate to potential partner markets; mid and season-end report forms; data collection tools; Fresh Access Bucks toolkit (MM guide, vendor guide, flier templates, recommended signage); vendor agreements; contracts for FOG, WW, and partner markets. Goal 3: To increase SNAP recipients' awareness of the importance of eating fresh fruits and vegetables, and familiarize participants with local and seasonal produce available at markets in Florida. Market partners will conduct monthly nutrition/taste education initiatives. SNAP-ED will coordinate one cooking demo per market partner for 24 markets. Market partners will assist SNAP-ED with the scheduling and location of the cooking demos. SNAP-ED, FOG and market partners will conduct outreach and advertising for the nutrition education initiatives through press releases, flyers and social media. SNAP-ED will come equipped with all necessary consumables, groceries and staff to conduct the demos and provide applicable recipe and nutrition cards. FOG will supply materials necessary to conduct cooking demonstrations such as tables, hot plates, pots and pans for 10 new markets. SNAP-Ed will collect evaluation data and share results with FOG and FAB partners. Goal 4: Enhance marketing to increase visibility of FAB through a targeted promotional campaign. Continue to utilize the following tools to communicate to external audiences about our work: FOG Website - currently averages 2,500 unique (new) visitors a month. (www.foginfo.org) Fresh Access Bucks webpage (www.FreshAccessBucks.com) - 3,912 unique (new) views from 4/1/15 - 3/31/16 (average 326 per month). FOG's monthly eNewsletter - distributed to more than 3,900 people Social Media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Blog) General Media (through press releases, specific to the local media and radio) Market level community partnerships get the word out about the program at the local level. Distribute FAB promotional materials and communicate our strategic brand to partner markets- FAB logo, social media graphics, tent, banner, bi-lingual flyers, posters and brochure. List market partners on www.FreshAccessBucks.com website Continue to participate in regular calls with the Florida Department of Agriculture, Division of Food, Nutrition and Wellness and Wholesome Wave to collaborate and share information. Continue to connect FAB partners to organizations surrounding our markets that sign individuals up for SNAP benefits. Continue to serve as a liaison between state, local and federal agencies and organizations to develop and implement programs that promote community health and wellness. Goal 5: Evaluate FAB's Progress and Outcomes Through partner organization WW's Online Data Portal, MMs input data weekly onto FM Tracks to monitor the participation and growth of the FAB program. Data collected and provided through this portal includes: # EBT transactions towards local, fresh fruits and vegetables # new SNAP recipient customers purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables; SNAP dollars spent on locally grown fruits and vegetables at Florida farmer booths; FAB Incentive dollars distributed to SNAP customers and redeemed by farmers for the purchase of more Florida grown fruits and vegetables Anonymous, unique SNAP shopper ID (optional) MMs complete Mid-Year and Annual FAB Reports for FOG Continue to monitor data collection at partner market sites. Data analysis of statewide Fresh Access Bucks program. Independent Evaluations: Conduct year 2 Randomized Control Trial with fourteen partner markets from January to March 2017. Continue to work with Dr. Kellie' O'Dare Wilson on mixed method study on FAB in Florida. Use evaluations to inform future program planning.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Statewide from April 1, 2015 - March 31, 2016, FAB had 6,125 SNAP transactions, 1,335 new SNAP shoppers, $113,577 SNAP and $99,626 FAB incentive sales, and $101,006 SNAP and $104,393 FAB incentives redeemed. Goal 1: Eight new Farmers Markets (FM) and two CSAs received training, up to $5,000 in incentive funding and materials to implement FAB in YR1. These outlets had the following accomplishments: Number of SNAP Transactions: 867 Number of Unique SNAP Shoppers: 159 FAB incentives redeemed: $9,714 Goal 2: Twenty existing FAB markets were provided up to $10,000 in incentive funding. These twenty outlets had the following accomplishments: Number of EBT/SNAP Transactions: 5,258 Number of Unique SNAP Shoppers: 1,176 FAB incentives redeemed: $94,679 Goal 3: FAB markets hosted nutrition education events. Two FAB partners piloted our Eat with the Seasons Cooking Demonstrations with the University of Florida's IFAS Family Nutrition Program (FNP), the Snap-Ed implementing agency. 145 nutrition education initiatives occurred at 30 market partner sites in YR1. FOG and UF SNAP Ed developed and distributed promotional materials to notify customers of demos. The UF SNAP Ed conducted two pilot Eat with the Seasons Cooking Demonstrations at the Englewood FM and Brevard County FM. One of two pilot demos conducted an evaluation. 11 people completed the survey. 6 participants either agreed or strongly agreed that they would intend on changing their eating behaviors. Goal 4: FOG developed and provided the following standard promotional materials for each market to increase their outreach: FAB logo, social media graphics, tent, banner, bi-lingual flyers, posters, and website. The statewide network in YR1 included 28 FMs and 2 CSAs had the following accomplishments: Number of EBT/SNAP Transactions: 6,125 Number of Unique SNAP Shoppers: 1,335 FAB incentives redeemed: $104,393 Florida Department of Health and Department of Agriculture worked with FOG to promote FAB. Goal 5: FOG completed the following activities to evaluate the program's effectiveness in increasing f&v purchases among SNAP recipients while simultaneously increasing revenue for Florida farmers: 1) A rigorous, multi-site Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) will assess the f&v purchase and consumption of participating SNAP consumers to better understand relative impacts, costs and outcomes across different individual and community characteristics. Conducted in partnership with Wholesome Wave (WW) and the University of Delaware (UD), the RCT investigates: 1) if different incentive levels result in different f&v purchase/consumption levels; 2) if incentives that restrict purchasing to fruits and vegetables vs. incentives for all SNAP-eligible products, result in different behavioral changes; 3) comparative outcomes of monetary/non-monetary incentives; 4) extent to which natural variation in site characteristics and management explain differences in incentive redemption rates and/or f&v purchasing and consumption. Consumers at participating markets were recruited while processing SNAP benefits. UD reached out to these individuals to complete surveys. Upon completion of the survey, participants were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: 1) no additional incentive (1:1 FAB match) 2) moderate incentive (1:1.5 FAB match) and 3) largest incentive (1:2 FAB match). A "no additional incentive" option served as the control condition; these consumers received the standard market incentive. Below is a breakdown of data that has been collected so far. Since FAB markets have only completed one round of data collection, too little data has been collected to begin the data analysis; however, descriptive statistics of participants are available. Because FAB markets comprise the majority of the sample in Round 2, some statistics below are specific to all of Round 2 participants including 4 markets outside of Florida. Surveys: The two rounds of the RCT (i.e., September through October of 2015, and January through April of 2016), a total of 3,115 survey invitations were sent via email or text to both first-time participants, and to those who agreed to complete the survey in subsequent months. Forty-two percent (n=1,305) of those surveys were completed. In Round 2, 353 unique individuals were recruited into the RCT by FAB markets completing 445 surveys. Participants: Of the 3,115 surveys, 1278 were sent to first-time entrants. Fifty-one percent (n=648) completed the survey once during the study period. Only data from these first-time participants are included in this report: Food/Health Indicators: Overall, 69.60% (n=451) were considered food insecure and a staggering 57.84% of the sample population is overweight or obese (BMI ≥ 25). Baseline Purchasing Behavior: The average amount a participant spent per month on f&v was about $69.08 per individual, which comprises 43.95% of their total expenditure on food and drinks. In Round 2, the average amount spent per month on f&v was $75.39 per individual. Baseline f&v Consumption: The average amount of f&v adults age 18-44 consumed was about 3.05 cups (3.21 in Round 2). Overall, adults age 45-64 consumed 3.05 cups and older adults (65+) consumed about 2.71 cups. Nutrition Incentive Vouchers: In rounds 1 and 2 combined, there was a total 1,191 redemption instances at FMs. Of those participants who won the incentives, 535 used the voucher at least once and spent an average of $29.57 per visit. FAB markets alone redeemed $18,203 in RCT incentives between January and March 2016. 2) FOG worked with consultant, Dr. O'Dare Wilson to design, implement, analyze, and report on FAB MM's experiences with the FAB program. 18 of the 27 FMs, representing 67% of FAB markets at the time, completed a web-based survey. Participation by all markets was not appropriate given that many were newly operational. Markets vary greatly according to size, number of participating vendors, and administrative structure. Overwhelmingly, MM reported that vendors and SNAP shoppers have a positive perception of FAB. Most MM reported a positive or neutral perception of FAB among non-SNAP eligible shoppers. Most MM reported that non-SNAP eligible shoppers are "pleased" and/or "see value" in FAB. While several MM reported experiencing negative stereotypes toward FAB participants and also toward business that accept SNAP, feedback from most non-SNAP eligible shoppers seems to support encouraging increased local f&v consumption among low income shoppers. Most MMs reported moderate or low levels of general awareness within their communities regarding the availability of FAB. In addition, MMs reported that stigma, and time and/or location of market are persistent barriers, as well as the lack of reliable transportation to and from market. 3) FAB Annual Reports - Thirty markets provided an annual report to FOG outlining the expenditure of funds, challenges and successes that occurred during YR1. FOG reviewed, maintained the reports and verified appropriate use of funds. Summary of Challenges - Outreach: difficult to explain how FAB works; difficulty getting county support. Programmatic: negative biases against SNAP shoppers and our markets that support them; learning new data entry website; lack of paid staff; too few farmers; EBT equipment expenses; transitioning from resellers to producer only; confusing amount of scrip; lack of public transportation; violence in the community. Summary of Successes - Outreach: food events; partnerships with local agencies; market ambassadors; numerous articles in media. Programmatic: Increased vendor participation; improved visibility at market with banners, signage, FAB tents and flyers; loyal return customers; consistent flow of new customers; FAB 5 frequent shopper card.
Publications
- Type:
Other
Status:
Awaiting Publication
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Publications (in progress):
FOG is participating in a statewide FAB evaluation with Dr. Kellie ODare Wilson and a national, Randomized Control Trial (RCT) with Wholesome Wave and the University of Delaware. An official analysis of YR 1 data will be completed for presentation by Fall 2016 with plans to publish data in 2017.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Presentations by the FAB Team:
-University of Florida, First Coast Specialty Crop Conference, Aug 2015, Food Access in Florida
-University of Florida, Farmers Market Training, Nov 2015, Multiple Payment Options for Farmers
-University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agriculture (IFAS) Sciences Retreat, Feb 2016, Accepting SNAP & FAB
-University of Florida, IFAS Extension Agents In Service Training, Feb 2016, Multiple Payment Options for Farmers
-University of Florida, Ft. Myers Small Farms Conference, April 2016, Accepting SNAP & FAB
-SSAWG, March 2016, Sales Incentives for Farmers Markets and Other Direct Markets
|
|