Fruit and Vegetable Prescription Program

Cornell Cooperative Extension is pleased to announce the expansion of a SNAP-Ed Fruit and Vegetable Prescription (FVRx) Program in partnership with local health care providers and local produce vendors. The FVRx Program is an initiative of Extension’s North Country Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program - Nutrition Education and Obesity Prevention Program (SNAP-Ed), which provides services in St. Lawrence, Jefferson, Lewis, Franklin, Clinton, and Essex Counties.

The North Country Fruit and Vegetable Prescription Program (NC FVRx) will provide referred patients with $25 worth of vouchers for fresh produce at each of six weekly workshops. The workshops, led by SNAP-Ed nutrition educators, will educate participants on the importance of eating a balanced diet rich in fresh, whole foods, helping them stretch their food dollars, learning how to prepare healthy recipes at home, and will include food demonstrations and tastings of fresh, local ingredients. In addition to receiving produce vouchers at the workshops, attendees will also receive kitchen incentive items to ensure they have the resources they need to cook fresh ingredients at home.

“The CDC has stated that clinically based FVRx Programs coupled with nutrition education can be an effective way to improve diets in low-income households,” says Cassondra Caswell, North Country SNAP-Ed Program Manager. Extension believes this program will improve nutrition security, better connect underserved populations with local farmers and food producers, and create a lasting network of community partners, local farmers and the families we serve.”

FAQs

What is it?

The goal of this program is to help you learn new, healthy ways to eat more fruits and vegetables to address health concerns.

How does it work?

• Your health care provider will write you a prescription based on diet-related chronic disease and nutrition security needs. 
• A nutritionist will invite you to a 6-week interactive workshop.
• Participate in LIVE cooking demonstrations using in-season produce.
• Receive $25 voucher to cover the cost of the prescription (one per week of the 6-week workshop, total value of $150).

Am I eligible?

At risk of or diagnosed with a diet-related chronic disease? Experiencing nutrition security? Receive a referral at your visit to get started. Ask your healthcare provider for more information. 

Who are the current Healthcare Partners? 

Below is a list of current healthcare partners in Clinton and Essex counties. New partnerships are on the way.

1. Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital - Family Medicine 
2. Hudson Headwaters Health Network - All clinics/practices

Where can I redeem my FVRx vouchers?

Below is a list of current redemption sites in Clinton and Essex counties. New partnerships are on the way.

1. Cornerstore Drud and Gift, Inc.
2. Northern Orchard Co., Inc. 
3. Yando's Big M - Plattsburgh
4. Keeseville Farmacy

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Last updated June 24, 2025