Park Authority

CONTACT INFORMATION: Open during regular business hours 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday
703-324-8700 TTY 711
12055 Government Center Pkwy.
Fairfax, Virginia 22035
Jai Cole
Executive Director

Department Resources

Farmers Markets Offer Extra Produce Benefits for SNAP Shoppers During Federal Government Shutdown

Snap benefitsThe Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) and its community partners are working to help ensure community members have access to fresh, healthy food throughout November, as the federal government shutdown continues to affect Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.

Gov. Glenn Youngkin has declared a state of emergency and launched the Virginia Emergency Nutrition Assistance (VENA) program to support households that rely on SNAP. VENA provides weekly emergency food distributions to eligible households whose SNAP benefits were approved by Oct. 29, 2025, for the duration of the shutdown.

Additionally, Virginia Fresh Match (VFM) is offering enhanced produce benefits at participating Fairfax County farmers markets and select grocery stores during November. At farmers markets, SNAP shoppers will receive an extra $20 in free tokens to use on fruits and vegetables — no minimum purchase required. Shoppers with a $0 SNAP balance may also participate in the VFM program.

Participating Fairfax County Farmers Markets:

  • McCutcheon/Mount Vernon Farmers Market – Wednesdays from 8 a.m.–noon through Nov. 26
  • Reston Farmers Market – Saturdays from 8 a.m.–noon (Nov. 1 and Nov. 8 only through Cornerstones)
  • Lorton Farmers Market – Sundays from 8 a.m.–noon through Nov. 23

Note: The Annandale and Wakefield farmers markets are closed for the season.

Residents can find more information about the VENA food distribution schedule and Virginia Fresh Match participating locations by visiting market information tents. You can also visit the Virginia Fresh Match website for participating locations, or the Virginia Department of Social Services website for the VENA food distribution schedule.

These programs aim to help families stretch their food dollars, support local farmers, and ensure access to fresh, nutritious produce during the federal funding lapse.

About Fairfax County Park Authority

Fairfax County Park Authority enriches the quality of life for all members of the community through an enduring park system that provides a healthy environment, preserves natural and cultural heritage, offers inspiring recreational experiences and promotes healthy lifestyles. Learn more by visiting the Park Authority website.

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