According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 60% of children do not consume enough fruit in their diet, and 93% do not eat enough vegetables. To get more families involved in buying fresh local produce and educate youth about eating health, the Fulton County Family and Consumer Sciences partnered with the Fulton Farmers Market and The City of Fulton to host a Kids Day at the Farmers Market. The program was a hit among children and their parents. If kids came to the farmers market and participated in our activities the kids would get $5 to spend among the producers on fresh fruits and vegetables. The local Kentucky Farm Bureau and The Citizens Bank both donated $1000 for this project. Vendors were given Plate It up Kentucky Proud recipe cards to match the produce they had available. Through this program, the children increased their knowledge of identifying certain fruits and vegetables. Over 300 families participated in this event. 60% of the families had never visited the Fulton Farmers Market.

Police Chief Allen Poole who assisted with the inflatable and brought both of his children to the event said “The Kids day at the Farmers Market has the best turnout of any kids event we have seen in the City of Fulton. Not only was it enjoyable to help with this event, my two small enjoyed it so much they can’t wait for the next”

Event goer Kristin Hamlin said “ What a great experience for families with little ones! So many fun activities for kids of all ages. Our son really enjoyed getting farmers bucks and getting to buy his own vegetables!”