TOLEDO – Iowa State University Extension and Outreach in Tama County is bringing back its popular Power of Produce (PoP) Club for children at the 2026 Toledo Farmers’ Market, along with the PoP PLUS program for adults 65 and older.

Originally launched in 2011 at the Oregon City Farmers Market in Oregon, the PoP Club has since expanded nationwide and has been in Tama County since 2023. The program encourages healthy eating habits by giving children hands-on opportunities to explore fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables.

Each week, children who participate in the PoP Club activity will receive a $3 market voucher to spend themselves on fresh produce. Kids may use the voucher immediately or save it for a future market visit. The program is designed to help children learn how food is grown, meet local farmers, and make their own nutritious choices.

The PoP Club will be available on the following 2026 market dates: June 5 & 19 • July 10 & 24 • August 7 & 21 Children ages 4-12 are invited to join. Registration and check-in will take place at the designated PoP Club desk at the market.

In addition to the youth program, the PoP PLUS initiative will support adults 65 and older. Participants receive a booklet of produce vouchers to use at the market after attending an ISU Extension and Outreach health and wellness program in their community or by visiting the PoP table at the market. The goal is to make fresh fruits and vegetables more accessible while promoting healthy habits for older adults.

“We’re excited to continue offering programs that connect our community with local farmers and make healthy food choices fun and accessible,” said Cheryl Bruene of ISU Extension and Outreach in Tama County.

For more information about either program, community members may contact Cheryl Bruene at 641-484-2703.

We look forward to seeing you at the Toledo Farmers’ Market this season!