PRESS RELEASE: Programs Like CalFresh (SNAP) and Market Match Offered by Orange Home Grown Strengthen Local Food Access and Economy

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Orange, California: November 4, 2025 - As food costs rise and federal nutrition programs face funding uncertainty, CalFresh (California’s version of SNAP) and Market Match have become increasingly vital in helping families access fresh, local food and in supporting a resilient Southern California food economy. Offered weekly at the Orange Home Grown Farmers & Artisans Market, these programs make it easier for residents to choose nutritious, locally sourced options while strengthening the livelihoods of small farmers and producers.

To date in 2025, Orange Home Grown (OHG) has distributed $36,640 in CalFresh and $18,239 in Market Match benefits, helping households stretch their food budgets and directly supporting local producers. Since introducing these benefits in 2017, OHG has distributed more than $201,491 in CalFresh and $82,673 in Market Match at the market.

Market Match enhances the purchasing power of CalFresh shoppers at participating farmers markets. Market patrons using CalFresh EBT cards receive an additional $15 in Market Match each market day to spend on fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables. The statewide program, administered by the Ecology Center through the California Nutrition Incentive Program (CNIP), benefits families, farmers, and local economies alike.

According to statewide data, every $1 in SNAP spending generates $1.54 in GDP, supporting jobs in agriculture, transportation, and retail. SNAP and CalFresh programs not only strengthen local economies but also improve health outcomes by making nutritious food more accessible and more affordable for families. Research shows that these programs help reduce racial and economic disparities in food access and wealth, supporting a more equitable community. 

“Market Match helps me buy an extra basket of berries and fruit for my kids. Everything is a penny crunch right now and every dollar counts” — Tamara C, Market Match customer

“Market Match and CalFresh are essential parts of our local food system,” said Nikki Patino, Market Manager, at Orange Home Grown. “They support our farmers, nourish our families, and improve access to healthy, affordable food.”

Orange Home Grown encourages CalFresh recipients to visit the Farmers & Artisans Market every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 303 W. Palm Avenue in Old Towne Orange to learn more and participate in these programs.

About Orange Home Grown

Orange Home Grown Foundation is a 501c3 non-profit helping people reconnect to a healthy and sustainable food system. The branches of the non-profit engage residents of all ages, ethnicities, and income levels in creative environments and programs. These programs foster education, awareness and action around farming, food and health while celebrating the positive agricultural attributes of the City of Orange and its surrounding cities.

Learn more at orangehomegrown.org or follow @orangehomegrown on Instagram.

For media inquiries or more information, please contact:

Megan Penn

Founder & Executive Director

Orange Home Grown

megan@orangehomegrown.org