Bellingham Farmers Market Calls on Community Support as SNAP Market Match Faces Historic Funding Gap

For the first time in its 33-year history, the Bellingham Farmers Market (BFM) is turning to the community to help sustain its food access programs as government funding for SNAP Market Match is set to be drastically reduced in 2026. With cuts expected to exceed two-thirds of current support, BFM is launching an urgent fundraising effort to keep its Unlimited SNAP Market Match program alive.

The Bellingham Farmers Market has long been a cornerstone of Whatcom County’s local food system, connecting residents with more than 100 local farmers, food producers, and artisans almost year-round. At the center of its mission is a commitment to access to sustainable, locally grown food—an effort made possible through long-standing food access programs like the SNAP Market Match.

This program provides a full 1:1 match for every EBT/SNAP dollar spent at the market, immediately doubling purchasing power for community members who rely on these benefits. BFM is one of just 11 markets statewide—outside of Seattle—offering a fully unlimited SNAP Market Match. The result is a stronger local food economy and a more inclusive market where everyone can participate.

As Market Director, Chloe Knox, shares “We hear every week from shoppers and farmers about how the Unlimited SNAP Market Match makes a real difference. It allows families to fill their bags with fresh, local food and helps farmers sell more of what they grow. With government support dropping, we need our community’s help to keep this program fully available for everyone.”

SNAP Match is a win-win: it expands access to fresh, healthy food for customers with limited resources while putting more dollars directly into the hands of local farmers.

BFM is partnering with the Chuckanut Health Foundation to help secure community donations that will directly support the program in 2026 and beyond, keeping it unlimited and accessible for the entire market season.

The Bellingham Farmers Market is asking community members, local businesses, and supporters of food access to contribute to this urgent effort. Every dollar donated helps secure the future of a program that feeds families, supports local farmers, and strengthens the regional food system.

To donate or learn more about the funding gap and how to help, visit the Bellingham Farmers Market’s website or stop by the Market Info Booth during market days. The Market is open weekly through December 20th. Donations can be made directly through this link.

About the Bellingham Farmers Market

The Bellingham Farmers Market supports local sustainable agriculture by connecting the public with local farmers, artisans, and producers in an economically viable marketplace. Its food access programs—including Unlimited SNAP Market Match—play a crucial role in ensuring all community members can participate in and benefit from the local food system.