Expanding Access to Locally Grown Food: A Proposal for a Statewide Food Reimbursement Program

The Challenge

Drawing inspiration from the success of Michigan's Double Up Food Bucks program and 10 Cents a Meal, we propose the implementation of a statewide Local Food Reimbursement Program aimed at bridging the gap between retailers, restaurants, and food brands with access to nutritious, locally grown food. Double Up Food Bucks serves as a national model for nutrition incentives, offering a dollar-for-dollar match for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) beneficiaries purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables. 

With a proven track record of supporting Michigan farmers, promoting healthy food choices, and stimulating local economies, Double Up exemplifies the transformative impact of incentive programs. Similarly, the Local Food Reimbursement Program seeks to incentivize retailers and food brands to purchase directly from local farmers, fostering economic growth and community resilience. Governor Whitmer's proposed budget allocates substantial funding to support programs like Double Up, reflecting a commitment to expanding access to locally grown produce. By leveraging federal, state, and philanthropic support, we can establish a robust framework for the Local Food Reimbursement Program, ensuring equitable access to nutritious food options for all Michigan residents.

The Impact

Implementing a local food reimbursement program in Michigan could significantly benefit the state's food system and economy. By covering some costs for retailers, restaurants, food brands, and other institutions to buy locally-sourced foods, the program could encourage more businesses to affordable support Michigan's vast network of over 47,600 farms. This support would help these farms grow and become more sustainable, creating new opportunities for farmers and food producers. Additionally, bridging the gap between retailers and farmers can boost revenue, cut costs, and enhance sustainability for businesses. With only about 3% of Michigan farms selling directly to consumers, a reimbursement program could expand access to fresh, locally-grown foods, benefiting producers and consumers statewide.