SNAP Volunteers for Wakefield Farmers Market

Background Information: Britepaths seeks community members to volunteer at the  Wakefield Farmers Market during the 2024 market season. It is one of the Fairfax County Farmers Markets operated by the Fairfax County Park Authority. In partnership with Fairfax County and FRESHFARM, this volunteer position will support the Virginia Fresh Match program at the Market.

The Virginia Fresh Match program allows community members who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to utilize their benefits at the Markets so they may purchase eligible items, including fresh fruits and vegetables. The matching program allows SNAP customers to stretch their food budget further to make local produce more affordable.

  • Click Here to learn more about SNAP matching at the Fairfax County Farmers Markets.
  • Click Here to learn more about Britepaths’ Farmers Market Initiatives.

Position Description: 

The Wakefield Farmers Market at Audrey Moore Recreation Center operates on Wednesday afternoons May 1-October 30, 2024. Volunteers will assist from 1:15 pm to 6:30 pm.

The SNAP Volunteer helps qualified community members maximize their SNAP/EBT benefits by providing a match of up to $40 throughout the Farmers Market season.

This part-time position requires 5 hours of work every other week at one of the Markets Britepaths supports. Our greatest need is at Wakefield Market, but we also welcome more volunteers for the Annandale Market. Volunteers must be 18 or older and have reliable transportation to the Market.

Interested applicants should be willing to commit to a regular schedule of 6 months.

Responsibilities and Requirements:

  • Understand Farmers Market token exchange process, guidelines, and requirements for implementing the SNAP matching program and accurately communicate information about those programs to volunteers, market vendors, and diverse customers. Training and guidance will be provided.
  • Operate the SNAP EBT terminal and dispense SNAP and match tokens according to established procedures.
  • Manage paperwork, report on time, and maintain inventory of necessary supplies.
  • Assist in setting up the information booth tent, table, and signs. All items will be stored on-site at the designated location.
  • Provide general customer services, such as answering questions about the SNAP program and helping customers search for specific vendors or products.
  • Must adhere to the Fairfax County Farmers Market Guidelines on the Market premises.
  • Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.

How to Apply: Contact Cora Lundgren at clundgren@britepaths.org or 703.273.8829.