Health department expands “health bucks” program to provide more coupons for fresh fruits and vegetables

New Yorkers have a healthy appetite for fresh, local fruits and vegetables, according to results from a pilot program designed to encourage healthier food shopping at farmers’ markets. New Yorkers redeemed more than 40% of the 9,000 Health Bucks coupons distributed last year to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables at participating farmers markets. To build on that success, the agency will give out approximately 15,000 Health Bucks this summer, each one valued at $2.