GRAND RAPIDS, MI - Clients of the Women, Infants and Children program can get an extra $20 to spend on fruits and vegetables at area farmers markets through a Kent County Health Department initiative.

Those taking part in Project Fresh receive a brief class, nutrition tips, recipes and an insulated tote bag, as well as $20 to spent at a farmers market or roadside stand.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture provided $22,500 to fund the program. The one-time benefit is deposited on the clients' Electronic Benefits Transfer, or Bridge, card.

"The benefits of this program are two-fold," said Christopher Bendekgey, director of the community clinical services at the health department. "We are able to get fresh fruits and vegetables into the hands of our clients, free of charge to them, and we're able to keep the funding for the program in the local economy by supporting the farmers and growers of Kent County."

The classes will be held until late July at various locations and will be conducted in English and Spanish.

To apply, clients may call the health department at 616-632-7200.

Sue Thoms covers health care for MLive/The Grand Rapids Press. Email her at sthoms1@mlive.com or follow her on Twitter, Facebook or Google+.