Participants pick out fresh fruits and vegetables grown by local farmers at the WIC Farmers Market, which took place at the Columbus Health Department.

Nothing says summer like biting into a fresh strawberry on a hot day or slicing juicy tomatoes for the annual cookout.

These foods and more representing all colors of the rainbow--from bell peppers and carrots to watermelon and blueberries--are available at local farmers markets, and National Farmers Market Week, Aug. 7-13, serves to celebrate the resource they provide.

WIC participants have been stocking up on locally-grown fare at WIC Farmers Markets across the state.

Brenda J. Forman, RD, LD, MEd, nutrition services director for the West Central Health District, said their farmers market started June 21 and ended July 25.

"We had markets in different counties, averaging one per week," Forman said. "Currently, we are issuing checks to WIC clients and they are visiting a local authorized WIC farmer in the area for their produce."

Forman said the program has many benefits.

"Clients receive nutrition education about the many health benefits of eating fruits and vegetables, as well as how to prepare and store," Forman said. "The program also helps local farmers generate revenue from products they've grown."

In addition to the WIC Farmers Market program, a Senior Farmers Market is also held. Checks are distributed to low-income seniors that can be exchanged for eligible foods at authorized farmers markets.

"The farmers market in [the West Central District] is always very successful and clients are very complimentary and thankful for all the work that's done by WIC staff to provide this service," Forman said. "This year, around the district, many clients gave either verbal or written comments of their gratitude for the program."

For community farmers markets around the state, click here.

-Story by Nicole Price, DPH Communications