After the local farmers' market vendors noted the decreasing percentage of young consumers at thier market, they contacted the extension FCS agent about the possibility of presenting the Power of Produce during market hours. The national program had been successful in many markets so the hope was to encourage the sale and consumption of fruits and vegetables not only for children but individuals as well.   The FCS agent  took on the project then worked with the summer intern to assist in presenting the program.  Objectives were written specific to the Meade County market and existing extension programs offered at the market such as Tuedsays at the Market were incorporated into the series.  Funding in the amount of $500 was secured from the local Farm Bureau to support the POP dollars and extension advertised the program through the local newspaper, radio and via Facebook posts.  The farmers' market also promoted on their page.  The six weeks series featured opportunities for young children to earn up to three POP bucks-one for coming to the market, two if they tasted the Plate It Up recipe demonstrated by the EFNEP or FCS agent and three if they participated in the feature activity of the day.  Activities varied from identifying fruits and vegetables to a scavenger hunt during the market.  The series was a great success with the Farmer's Market reporting a total of $647 redeemed and attendance sheets reflecting over 500 kids participating.  Not all kids participated in every activity and some kids wouldn't spend thier bucks even though they were told they had to be spent that day.  The market manager reported all vendors realized increased sales not just from the POP bucks but also from parents or caregivers spending at the market.  Parents were amazed by some of thier picky eaters as they sampled eggplant, squash and cucumbers to earn a buck to spend at the market.  Several of the kids actually liked the produce they had previously though was "yuck".  

Covid-19 altered the way the program is being offered at the 2020 maket but POP is being conducted by offering special market hours and smaller serving sizes to entice children to buy to try.