MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - When it comes to Meridian Township, its Farmers Market is a popular destination. And while farmers continue to benefit from the markets success, residents now have a way to benefit as well.

Each Saturday 16-year-old Keegan Gross wakes up at 5 in the morning, loads his truck up at 6 and heads to the market to give Meridian Township residents fresh asparagus, strawberries, tomatoes and more.

"Its all really good product, it's fresh, it was just picked this morning," said Farmer, Keegan Gross from Sparta, Michigan.

But family owned Rasch Farms isn't the only vender at the market that sells completely fresh products for Michigan residents to enjoy, there are over 40 other unique marketers here that offer an abundance of products that are now more affordable.

Not only does the Meridian Township Farmers Market offer a variety of things like fruits, vegetables, flowers, baked goods, meats and seafood, the market now offers a variety of ways to pay for products too.

Not only can customers pay with cash or credit, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program now enables Michigan residents to pay with bridge card tokens as well.

"The bridge card program with SNAP is an income based program that people apply for through the state, they can do it online or in person. They are awarded a certain amount of dollars on their bridge card. Then they can go to grocery stores or farmers markets that are eligible and use their bridge card to buy the same products you can get at the grocery store or farmers market," said Farmers Market Manager, Christine Miller.

The Meridian Township Farmers Market has participated in the SNAP program for three years now. And through its growing success, both venders and bridge card users agree that this is just what this community needs.

"I think it's good for the farmers market. People that are on assistance should have fresh food that is available to them," said owner of 45th Parlllel Pickles, Geyelord Mankowski.

And bridge card user, Silvia Sommer agrees, but believes she too, can lend a helping hand.

"We need to help each other and support the farmers so they continue to be there for us. Otherwise you eat tomatoes or fruits that don't even taste like what they should," said Meridian Township Resident, Silvia Sommer.

Silvia is a dedicated buyer at the Meridian Township Farmers Market and says she always will be, thanks to SNAP.

You can find the Meridian Township Farmers Market in the Central Park Pavilion at the Meridian Township Municipal Complex.

The market runs Saturday's 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., but starting July 2nd, it will be open Wednesday's 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. as well.

In addition to the use of bridge cards and double up food bucks, The Meridian Township Farmers Market could see alcohol sales in its future.

Last August a state law gave winemakers the opportunity to sell wine at local markets, but a pending state bill has micro- brewers anxiously awaiting to see if they can join in on the sales as well. ​