During two enrollment sessions in June, older adults with limited income 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, thanks to the Farm Market Fresh for Seniors program jointly sponsored by Valley Program for Aging Services (VPAS), Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services, and Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
In addition to supporting senior nutrition, the program also supports local farmers and farmers’ markets in the Staunton, Augusta County, and Waynesboro region. The program is supported by the USDA, Food and Nutrition Service.
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 $1,471 (single) or $1,991 (couple), have transportation to one of the Farmer’s Markets, and be present to pick up the coupons. 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.
Farm Market Fresh for Seniors program coupons are available on a limited, first come, first served basis. The program starts July1 and ends November 16. Recipients must complete a short form attesting to household income, date of birth, and can determine eligibility for coupons at the following VPAS Senior Centers:
- Staunton Senior Center, 300 Churchville Avenue, 886-4634, June 25, 10:00 a.m-2:00 p.m.
- Waynesboro Senior Center, 325 Pine Avenue, 942-1838, June 26, 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
As an additional service during the enrollment sessions, eligibility pre-screening for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) formerly known as Food Stamps will be offered for persons who are interested in extra help with groceries throughout the entire year.
For more information on the Farm Market Fresh for Seniors program, call Janice Gentry at Valley Program for Aging Services (VPAS), 540-949-7141. For more information about SNAP, call Rachel Bryner, VPAS Outreach Specialist, at 540-471-0256.
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Chris Graham
