Starting this month, Norman Farm Market patrons have an opportunity to receive a $20 gift certificate to be used with designated farm vendors who have had a farm inspection that demonstrates they grow their own products. The new program results from a collaboration between Cleveland County and the Cleveland County Health Department.
“This is such an incredible program that encourages a whole-health initiative,” said Market Manager Tara McClain. “The public is invited to come to the farmers market by walking, biking or taking any form of transportation that uses their own energy to get them there.”
These people will be rewarded with a $20 gift card—limit one per household—to spend at the market.
“Walk, bike, skate is a project we’ve been working to bring to life for years,” said Community Engagement Director Kate Cooper.
Kate is the former market manager who now works directly for the health department to bring health lifestyle programs to the Cleveland County Wellness Square (The Well). The county-managed Norman Farm Market is part of the interagency collaboration at The Well, a community-focused facility that opened in November 2021.
Kate said when Cleveland County commissioners awarded ARPA funding to The Well to promote community health programs there, she knew this would be one of the initiatives supported by that funding.
“We’ve always advocated for farmers first, and this is money that will go directly to local farmers and ranchers,” she said. “It shows our commitment to health and our commitment to the local food system.”
Qualifying purchases include fruits, veggies, meats, eggs and dairy products in their raw forms.
“I’m passionate about eating healthfully and locally, but it’s just as important to stay active and have the ability to socialize in positive environments,” Tara said. “The Walk, Bike, Skate program brings all of these together.”
To learn more, follow the Norman Farm Market on Facebook.
“We’ve always advocated for farmers first, and this is money that will go directly to local farmers and ranchers,” she said. “It shows our commitment to health and our commitment to the local food system.”