Seattle's soda tax revenue may pay for fresh veggies

Fresh Bucks, a Seattle program that helps low income families buy fresh produce at farmers markets could be expanded.

Currently, only families who are on food stamps are eligible. But a new proposal would include low income families like Som Porter, who may not qualify for food stamps.

Porter works full time at a distribution company in Kent. At the moment she and her husband are living on her income. And that’s a challenge when they shop for food.

“With the budget that we have, we’re looking for proteins or other things that are cheaper to buy,” she explained. “So when it comes down to fresh fruits and vegetables, we lack in that department.”

The city is considering using revenue from the soda tax to expand Fresh Bucks and help families like Porter who fall in between.

City Councilmember Mike O’Brien said the reason the city implemented a soda tax was to ease the health impacts of soda consumption in low income communities.

“Whatever we’re raising should be heavily redirected back to those communities to support healthier choices,” he said.

To date, the city’s soda tax has generated $10 million since it took effect in January.

O’Brien will hear from the Sweetened Beverage Tax Community Advisory Board about recommendations later this week.

Correction: An earlier version of this story states Councilmember O"Brien plans to introduce legislation.