A recent pilot study conducted by the Nutrition Policy Institute examined whether sending text messages to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participants could increase their awareness of farmers’ markets as a source for fresh fruits and vegetables. The California Nutrition Incentive Program (CNIP), known in many areas as Market Match, provides matching funds to SNAP recipients when they buy fruits and vegetables at certified farmers’ markets and other retailers.
The study focused on CalFresh participants who had not previously used the Market Match program. Over five weeks, selected individuals received one text message per week promoting Market Match. According to the report, participants found the messages informative and were satisfied with how often they received them.
While some participants reported making more visits to farmers’ markets to purchase produce, most did not take advantage of the Market Match program itself. Interviews revealed several barriers: many remained unaware of Market Match despite receiving texts, lacked sufficient SNAP funds to qualify for matching dollars, did not stop by information booths where tokens are distributed, or did not refer back to the texts for guidance during their market visits.
“This pilot study provides critical findings to inform larger efforts or evaluations of efforts to promote nutrition incentive programs to SNAP shoppers,” researchers stated in their evaluation report.
The report was prepared by Samantha Sam-Chen, Sridharshi Hewawitharana, Ron Strochlic, and Wendi Gosliner from the Nutrition Policy Institute. The research was supported by a Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program (GusNIP) award from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture. The findings do not necessarily represent the views of either USDA or the California Department of Food and Agriculture.
