This summer, we are excited to launch the first Power of Produce (POP) Kids Program in Golden, sponsored by Columbia Valley Credit Union and The Dirtbag Corporation.
Originally developed at the Oregon City Farmers Market in 2011, this program has grown into a nationwide initiative, providing a template for markets across North America to create similar programs in their communities. The program’s mission is threefold: (1) Empower children to make healthy food choices, (2) Strengthen and sustain healthy communities through supporting farmers and cultivating future farmers market supporters, and (3) Expand farmers markets from a retail location into a place where children can try new foods and learn about healthy eating.
The program began July 3rd and will run for nine weeks until August 28th. The program is open to all ages and free of charge. The POP program is a three-part initiative that includes a new healthy lifestyle-inspired activity every week, the “Two Bite Club,” and the $3 POP Bucks reward for participating. Activities range from designing reusable market bags to scavenger hunts, recipe demonstrations, and more!
Each week features a new fruit or vegetable in the “Two Bite Club” to motivate kids to try new foods, rewarding them with a $3 POP Bucks token to spend on local market produce. We encourage kids to participate every week, collecting stickers in their POP Passports.
Our first week was a great success, with 25 enthusiastic kids joining the program. We look forward to seeing them again this week and welcoming any new kids looking to join the fun!
