WEST MILFORD — Hazelman Farms and Sustainable West Milford have created a new currency to help promote the West Milford Farmers Market and to better expose people to fresh food.
To start the program, Hazelman Farms donated $1,000 to fund Farmers Market Bucks being donated to West Milford food pantries. Through the market's Web site, www.wmfarmersmarket.org, individuals can donate money which will be provided to local food pantries in market bucks. They can also choose to purchase market bucks for themselves or for friends. Any money donated is given to pantries at 100 percent of the donation amount as Hazelman Farms has provided the funding for the program administration.
"By creating a local currency we are working to support Buy Local efforts while exposing our townspeople to fresh market produce," said Hazelman, of Hazelman Farms.
Farmers Market Bucks are redeemable just like US currency at the West Milford Farmers Market each Wednesday of the 20 week season. The Farmers Market is held each Wednesday from June through Oct. 16, from 3 to 7 p.m. at the West Milford Presbyterian Church, 1452 Union Valley Road.
Market Bucks make a great present. Treat yourself or someone you know with the gift of fresh local produce and artisan delights from the West Milford Farmers Market.
Farmers Market Bucks – General FAQ
What can I buy with Farmers Market Bucks?
You can purchase any goods sold by the vendors at the West Milford Farmers’ Market.
How will I know who accepts Farmers Market Bucks?
All vendors of the West Milford Farmers market will accept Farmers Market Bucks.
How are Farmers Market Bucks issued?
Hazelman Farms and Sustainable West Milford created a pool of Farmers Market Bucks backed by US currency. The initial funding provides donations of Farmers Market Bucks to West Milford food pantries. Individuals can donate Farmers Market Bucks to food pantries or purchase them for themselves or as gifts.
How can I purchase or donate Farmers Market Bucks?
You can purchase or donate Farmers Market Bucks by ordering online at www.wmfarmersmarket.org.
How many different bills will be issued?
Two. A five Buck note and a one Buck note will be issued.
What are the advantages of Farmers Market Bucks?
Farmers Market Bucks are the same as money as long as they are being spent with the vendors of the 2013 West Milford Farmers’ Market. They may be exchanged among friends. They do not rot, wilt, or melt. They will not crack open when dropped. They encourage new visitors to buy products from the vendors at the West Milford Farmers’ Market.
Will there be change made from Farmers Market Bucks?
Change for purchases using all Farmers Market Bucks will be given in Farmers Market Bucks. Customers may pay a bill using a combination of Farmers Market Bucks and cash. Vendors will use their judgment about giving change for notes in cash.
Who redeems the Farmers market Bucks?
Farmers Market Bucks are redeemable for cash by a market vendor only. The market manager will not redeem Market Bucks until they have been spent at a market vendor.