Link Up Illinois on the Road: Listening and Learning from Communities

This summer, the Link Up Illinois team hit the road to connect with the heart of our program— the communities we serve. We visited 40+ farmers markets and over a dozen stores across Illinois that implement our Link Match program, listening to the stories of vendors, staff, and Link customers. 

“Their stories serve as maps, guiding us as we continue to find new and better ways to ensure our Link Match program improves customers’ fruit and vegetable access and purchasing power,” observed Allison Baldwin, the Link Up Illinois Program Associate, who visited the markets.

From the bustling city markets to the quiet charm of rural towns, we were impressed and inspired by the passion shared by our partners for nourishing Illinois communities. Jasmyne Boyce, Market Director of the Rantoul Farmers Market, captures the essence of this spirit. “Link Match has done tremendous things for our growth,” she shared. “The entire zip code of 61866 needs this service.” 

We heard time and time again from Link customers how their families are struggling to cover food expenses following the reduction of SNAP benefits and increases in food prices. The farmers and market staff we met are working tirelessly and creatively to connect their communities with access to fresh produce. Their stories continue to inspire us to ensure the affordability of that fresh produce and to expand the reach of Link Match throughout Illinois.