This August is going to be unbeatable at West End Farmers Market. For one, the fruits and veggies from our amazing market vendors will be the best of the year. Think tomatoes, peppers, squash, eggplants, green beans, peaches, nectarines, apples, and berries. It just doesn't get any better than fields and fields of the finest eating around!

We're also going to add a little magic to the mix. Like, give every kid who comes to the market $5 to spend on fruits and veggies -- every week until we run out of funding. (What?? For real? Yep. For real. Thanks, Molina Healthcare!)

What else? We'll have samples and recipes from our friends at the Virginia Family Nutrition Program on Aug. 1 and 15. On Aug. 22, LEAP is providing free face painting by potter and Grandin Village Farmers Market vendor Isha Devine! Throughout the month, there will be local treats (snow cones made from local cherry juice; Two Roosters Kettle Corn) and kid activities. And a few surprises to keep you coming back for more.

For seniors, recipients of SNAP, WIC, Medicaid, and/or most Roanoke City School students, there are programs in place to make all this great summer eating even more affordable. Shoppers older than 60 who make less than $2,300 per month are eligible for vouchers totaling $50. SNAP, Medicaid, and WIC customers can have their purchases matched ($1 spent at the market = $1 free fruits and vegetables from the market). Roanoke City school system students can have their P-EBT dollars doubled, as well.

On Tuesday, Aug. 8, we'll celebrate National Farmers Market Week. Be sure to check our social media pages to learn why LEAP shoppers return to our farmers markets week after week, and also get some glimpses behind the scenes. And know that every Tuesday in August is going to be a celebration you won't want to miss!

Questions: Email markets@leapforlocalfood.org.