Being on a tight budget doesn’t mean having to go without healthy foods.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Produce Match program provides fruits and vegetables at a reduced cost for those on state food benefits. In San Juan County, it is offered at the food co-ops on Orcas (both in Eastsound and Olga) and San Juan Island. If you spend at least $10 on fresh, frozen or canned produce using your EBT card, you’ll receive a $5 discount — every time you shop.

“It’s great because your name is in our system, so you don’t have to say anything. It’s very discreet,” said Sara Pelfry, cooperative relations manager for the Orcas Food Co-op.

The program is available to all individuals who qualify for SNAP benefits (also known as Basic Food). It is made possible by funding from the Washington State Department of Health. For more information about SNAP eligibility, visit www.dshs.wa.gov/esa/community-services-offices/basic-food. Grocery stores across the state are participating in the program to help shoppers buy more produce; a full list can be found on the DOH website.

The Orcas Food Co-op offers an additional way to buy affordable local produce. With its Fresh Bucks initiative — in partnership with the Orcas Community Resource Center and San Juan County Health and Community Services — qualifying shoppers receive up to $20 off each purchase of locally grown fruits and vegetables.

“This is one of my favorite programs because it eliminates barriers to organic produce, and it supports local farmers,” Pelfry said. “Many customers strategically use Fresh Bucks and the SNAP produce match.”

To apply for Fresh Bucks, visit https://orcasfood.coop/fresh-bucks.

“Culturally, this island is rooted in being self-sufficient, and the wonderful thing about both of these programs is they keep people’s autonomy and dignity while still affording access to the food they need.”