Seattle officials announced a major expansion of the Fresh Bucks affordable healthy food program. More than 4,500 families were moved from the waiting list to active participants, and the program remains open for new applications. As of January 1, the monthly benefit for low-income households has been increased from $40 to $60, and benefits for those already enrolled in 2025 have been extended for an additional year. The program is funded by the city’s sweetened beverage tax.
The Fresh Bucks program provides monthly benefits to purchase fruits and vegetables at more than 45 participating stores and farmers markets. Eligibility is available to households with incomes at or below 80% of the regional median, which—for example—equals about $109,000 a year for a three-person household. You can apply to be added to the waiting list on the official website. More than 70% of recipients are from communities that face disproportionately high levels of diet-related illness and food insecurity due to limited access to stores, well-paying jobs, and transportation.
A University of Washington study confirms the program’s effectiveness. According to the data, households participating in Fresh Bucks show 31% higher levels of food security. They also are 37% more likely to consume at least three servings of fruits and vegetables per day. Research shows that increased access to healthy food reduces the risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, and other health threats, making the program an important public health tool.
Based on: Seattle ushers thousands more into Fresh Bucks program for healthy food