If you are part of the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program in Arkansas in 2026, you may qualify for additional food‑related benefits that help you buy fresh, locally‑grown fruits and vegetables at farmers markets.
The WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) issues seasonal vouchers for WIC participants so they can use them at approved farmers markets throughout the state.
The Arkansas WIC FMNP is a federally funded nutrition program administered by the Arkansas Department of Health through the state’s WIC clinics.
The purpose of the program is to increase awareness and use of local farmers markets while giving WIC families access to fresh produce. Coupons are issued on a first‑come, first‑serve basis each year.
WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program
The WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) gives eligible WIC participants special vouchers they can spend on fresh, unprocessed fruits, vegetables, and herbs grown by local farmers.
The program aims to support healthy eating habits and connect families with local agriculture while providing more food choices for women and young children enrolled in WIC.
The FMNP benefits are separate from regular WIC food packages and the monthly fruit and vegetable cash‑value voucher (CVV) amounts set by the USDA. These vouchers are an extra seasonal benefit that adds to the food support WIC already provides.
When Are Farmers’ Market Vouchers Issued in Arkansas?
In Arkansas, WIC FMNP vouchers are typically issued each year starting on May 1 and continuing through August. You can request vouchers when you visit your local WIC clinic for appointment or certification during this period.
All vouchers must be used at participating farmers markets or authorized farmers before October 1 of the same year. Federal rules for the FMNP allow beneficiaries to use coupons only within a five‑month season.
This means for the 2026 season you should plan to:
- Request FMNP vouchers beginning May 1, 2026, or when you visit your WIC clinic after that date.
- Use FMNP vouchers at authorized markets from May through September 2026.
- Spend all vouchers by September 30, 2026, because after that date they expire and cannot be redeemed at farmers’ markets.
Who Can Get Farmers’ Market Vouchers?
WIC participants who are women, infants (older than one year), and children up to age five are generally eligible for FMNP vouchers each year. Vouchers are limited in number and distributed on a first‑come, first‑served basis.
Your local WIC clinic will tell you how many coupons you can receive and provide a list of approved farmers markets and vendors where you can use them.
If your clinic has already given out all FMNP coupons for the year, you may ask neighboring clinics whether they have remaining supplies, as distribution can vary by location.
The state WIC office can also help answer questions about availability.
Where Can I Use My WIC FMNP Vouchers?
You can use your Arkansas WIC FMNP vouchers only at participating farmers markets and authorized farmers that meet federal and state criteria.
These markets display a sign indicating they accept FMNP coupons and sell at least 50 percent locally grown produce during the season from May to September.
The Arkansas Department of Health publishes lists of markets and authorized vendors each year so you know where you can redeem your vouchers.
Common farmers markets around the state that accept WIC FMNP benefits include markets in Little Rock, Eureka Springs, Texarkana, and many county health units and clinics that participate in the program.
Check the posted list at your WIC clinic or on the Arkansas Health Department website for updated locations and schedules.
What Items Can be Bought With FMNP Vouchers?
FMNP vouchers can be used only for fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs that are unprocessed. You cannot use them for seeds, plants, prepared foods, or non‑produce items.
These rules ensure that the benefit directly increases access to healthy, nutritious produce for your family.
Your WIC clinic will provide a list of approved foods you can buy and explain how to use your coupons at the market.
What Happens If I Lose My FMNP Vouchers?
Unlike the regular WIC food benefits that are tracked on your WIC card, FMNP vouchers are printed coupons.
If you lose them, most clinics cannot replace them, especially if the market season is late in the year. Always keep your vouchers in a safe place until you use them.
Ask your WIC clinic staff about replacement policies when you receive your vouchers.
How Do I Get More Information About FMNP?
For detailed information about the Arkansas WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program, including lists of markets, health units that issue vouchers, and program rules, contact your WIC clinic or visit the Arkansas Department of Health’s FMNP page.
You can also ask at your next WIC certification appointment whether FMNP coupons are still available.