Supporting Healthy Communities Through Affordable, Local Food
The Market Buck Program is part of the broader Rutgers Community Farmers Market initiative, which includes the New Brunswick Community Farmers Market and Cook’s Market at Rutgers Gardens. This program is designed to make fresh, healthy, locally grown food more accessible and affordable for all residents of New Brunswick and surrounding communities.
What Are Market Bucks?
Rutgers Market Bucks are a food assistance initiative designed to support students facing food insecurity by increasing their access to fresh, locally grown produce. The program is part of Rutgers University's broader commitment to student wellness and sustainability.
The purpose of the programs is to:
- Combat Food Insecurity: Market Bucks are distributed to students who use the Rutgers Student Food Pantry, helping them supplement their food supply with nutritious options.
- Promote Healthy Eating: By encouraging the purchase of fresh fruits and vegetables, the program supports better dietary habits.
- Support Local Agriculture: Bucks can only be used at Rutgers-affiliated farmers markets, which feature produce from local farms and vendors.
How Do You Get Market Bucks?
Rutgers Market Bucks are provided to students who use the Rutgers Student Food Pantry, offering $10 in vouchers every two weeks. These can be used to buy fresh fruits and vegetables at the New Brunswick Community Farmers Market, helping students access nutritious food while supporting local agriculture. No separate application is needed—students receive the vouchers during pantry visits.
Where Can You Use Market Bucks?
These vouchers can be redeemed at participating Rutgers Community Farmers Markets including:
Rutgers University Locations
- College Ave Student Center
- Thursdays, through November 20, 2025
- 126 College Ave.
- 11 am - 4 pm
- Busch Student Center
- Monthly during the Spring Semester
- 604 Bartholomew Rd Suite 152, Piscataway, NJ 08854
- TBD
- Cook’s Market at Rutgers Gardens
- Friday, through November 21, 2025
- 112 Log Cabin Road
- 11 am - 3 pm
New Brunswick Locations
- Kilmer Square Park Market
- Tuesday and Saturdays, through November 22, 2025
- 178 Jones Avenue
- 9 am - 1 pm
These markets operate seasonally (typically June–November) and offer fresh produce, baked goods, prepared foods, and more.
Why It Matters
The Market Buck Program is part of a larger collaboration between:
- Rutgers Cooperative Extension
- Rutgers School of Environmental and Biological Sciences
- Johnson & Johnson
- The City of New Brunswick
The goal of this program is to help Rutgers students make healthier choices without financial strain.
