I hope you had a great weekend. I spent my Saturday at the Children's Creativity Museum in SOMA, breaking ground on a much-needed capital improvement project. I secured $800,000 in state funding to help build a new learning lab, upgrade its performing arts theater, and improve the entrance for better access.

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It's exciting to see the state's investment in the museum take a big step forward. Learning opportunities outside of school can foster our children's curiosity in math, science and the arts. In the long run, this can help boost their academic success and pave the way to bright futures.

On Sunday, I celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Clement Street Farmers Market, which has been a year-round staple in the neighborhood. I used the occasion to announce another $35 million in state funding for one of my favorite programs, Market Match - a statewide program enabling lower-income Californians on CalFresh to stretch their dollar at farmers markets like Clement Street. For example, if they spend $10 of their food benefits on fruits and vegetables, they would get another $10 to spend on nutritious food.

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Market Match helps both the community and the economy. For participants, they can buy more fresh produce. A healthy diet leads to healthier outcomes. The program also helps local farmers and their markets increase their customer base. I previously championed state funding for Market Match in years past, and this latest allocation ensures the program continues through 2028.

I hope you can drop by both the Children's Creativity Museum and the Clement Street Farmers Market soon to see the benefits they bring to our communities!

PHIL TING
Assemblymember, 19th District