Boulder’s Soda Tax Funds Fresh Produce for Low-Income Residents

In Boulder, Colorado, the revenue from a voter-passed soda tax, which has amassed nearly $29 million since its inception in July 2017, is being used to fund health equity programs, including the Fruit & Veg Boulder program. This initiative provides low-income residents with monthly stipends to purchase fresh produce, supporting nearly 1,500 people across 370 families. Participants, such as Maria Fraire, receive up to $80 per month to buy vegetables, which is crucial given Boulder’s high cost of living.
The program, funded primarily by the soda tax and additional federal aid, also supports undocumented immigrants and mixed-status families. Residents use paper coupons at local markets and participating grocery stores, fostering healthy eating habits and aiding local farmers and businesses. Despite its success, demand exceeds supply, prompting calls for expansion and increased funding due to rising food costs. The initiative, praised for its community impact, represents a successful model of using tax revenue for public health benefits.