Low-income seniors in Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell and Tazewell counties may sign up now for the Farm Market Fresh program. The Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program helps low-income seniors obtain free fresh produce. Appalachian Agency for Senior Citizens administers the program locally.
To qualify, individuals must be at least 60 years old and reside in Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell or Tazewell counties. They may not live in the same household and may not be an immediate family member of the farmer who grows the produce. Income eligibility for a household of 1 is $1,957, and for a household of 2 is $2,644 per month.
Eligible seniors receive benefits worth $50, which they may spend with participating certified retail farmers’ market vendors. Individuals may choose digital benefits or a card that will be mailed to them. The program is open from June 1 through November.
Enrollees may use the benefits to obtain locally grown seasonal fruits, vegetables and herbs, including broccoli, cabbage, cucumbers, eggplant, greens, green beans, snap beans, green peppers, lima beans, potatoes, pumpkins, spinach, squash, sweet corn, sweet potatoes, apples, blackberries, cantaloupe, nectarines, peaches, pears, strawberries, tomatoes, watermelons and fresh cut herbs.
Items not eligible for purchase include produce not grown locally, such as oranges, bananas and pineapples; processed foods, such as honey, maple syrup, cider, nuts, meat, bread and cheese; and non-food items, such as flowers and plants.
Call Appalachian Agency at 276-964-4915 to complete your application or visit FarmMarketFresh.org. to complete your application online.