TOLEDO – Iowa State University Extension and Outreach in Tama County is returning with a free kids program: Power of Produce Club (PoP Club) at the 2025 Toledo Farmers’ Market.

This program was created at the Oregon City, Oregon, farmers market in 2011. Due to its success, it has spread to farmers markets all over the nation. The PoP Club has been in Minnesota since 2014 and is growing to markets around the region.

Each child participating in the weekly program activity will receive a $3 market voucher to be spent (by kids) on fresh produce. Kids will receive their vouchers once per market. They can choose to spend it on their own $3 selection of fresh, locally grown produce, or save their vouchers for a future market.

The goal of the PoP Club is to empower children to make healthy choices when selecting food to eat. The program offers a chance for children to explore the farmers market and learn about the different varieties of fruits and vegetables, while also learning about how food is grown, by connecting them with local farmers.

On June 6 and 20, July 11 and 25, and August 1 and 15, children ages 4 through 12 are welcome to visit the farmers market and join the PoP Club. Registration and check-in will be located at the designated PoP Club desk at the market. Questions about the program can be addressed to Cheryl Bruene at the Extension office (641-484-2703).

We hope to see you at the market!