Friendly City Food Co-op continues food accessibility through grant

HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) – Families using SNAP and EBT benefits can continue accessing fresh food at the Friendly City Food Co-op, thanks to a grant from Virginia Fresh Match.

The program matches SNAP/EBT funds, allowing shoppers to purchase fresh and frozen fruits, vegetables, herbs, and edible plant seeds and seedlings at a 50% discount. Frozen produce is also eligible as long as no additional ingredients, such as seasonings, are added.

“Anything that can be grown and is edible qualifies—so not flowers, but vegetable and herb seeds,” said Dietrich Ewing, produce manager at Friendly City Food Co-op.

The Friendly City Food Co-op was founded by the community to provide access to fresh, local, and organic food. Much of its produce comes from nearby farms, ensuring freshness and supporting local agriculture.

While federal funding for food assistance programs remains uncertain, Ewing said the co-op plans to keep the program running for as long as funds are available.

“As far as we know, the funds are there, and we haven’t heard anything different,” Ewing said. “We’re going to continue the program for as long as we can.”

For more information on using SNAP/EBT benefits at the co-op, shoppers can visit the store or check its website.

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