Farm Fresh offers seniors access to fresh fruits and veggies

Edited by Chris Graham
[email protected] 
 

The Valley Program for Aging Services is offering coupons to seniors giving them access to fresh fruits and vegetables under the auspices of its Farm Market Fresh for Seniors Program.

Program requirements are different this year, with decreased income limits and fewer numbers of coupons available. To qualify for the program, individuals must be 60 years of age or older, live in Staunton, Augusta County, or Waynesboro, have a monthly income of no more than $1,354 (single) or $1,821 (couple), and have transportation to one of the farmer’s markets.

The income limits are lower this year based on state guidelines. Individuals cannot be an immediate family member or live with a participating farm market vendor. Only one coupon book per eligible senior or two coupon books per eligible couple per market season will be permitted.

During four enrollment sessions in June, 200 older adults will be eligible to receive $40 in coupons to purchase fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables, and cut herbs at the Staunton, Verona and Waynesboro Farmer’s Markets this summer.

The Farm Market Fresh for Seniors Program is sponsored by VPAS, the Virginia Department for Aging, the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the USDA.

The coupons are available on a limited first-come, first-served basis. Recipients must complete a short form attesting to household income, date of birth, and can determine eligibility for coupons.
 

For more information:
– Staunton Senior Center, 1313 Barterbrook Road, 540.886.4634, June 8 and June 9, 9 a.m-12:30 p.m.
– Waynesboro Senior Center, 325 Pine Ave., 942-1838, June 16 and June 17, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.