More funding means more vouchers for Seniors Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WTVQ) – An increase in grant monies will aid a program made to improve nutrition for low income Kentucky seniors. The funding provides the opportunity to increase the voucher amounts seniors receive to spend on fresh fruits and vegetables this year through the Kentucky Department of Agriculture’s (KDA) Seniors Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program.

“The Department’s work to bring freshly-grown nutritious food to the tables for some of more vulnerable seniors is one of the most rewarding programs we offer,” Commissioner of Agriculture Dr. Ryan Quarles said. “With additional funds, we can get seniors larger access and fill an even greater nutritional void.”

The program allows for qualifying seniors to use the vouchers on fresh, unprocessed, locally grown fruits, vegetables, cut cooking herbs and honey at state-approved farmers’ markets. The grant amount for the program in 2020 was $316,869 providing eligible seniors to receive $30 in vouchers. Due to residual funds from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the grant amount has increased in 2021 to $500,229 which will allow participants to get $48 in vouchers.

Federal and state resources provide funding for the program. The KDA acts as the lead agency for voucher distribution. Each June, the vouchers are given on a first-come basis and can be used through October. To learn more about the program and eligibility or for a list of distribution agencies, visit the senior farmers’ market page on KDA’s website or contact KDA employees Jesse Frye at (502)382-7458 or Tina Garland (502)382-7505.

Along with improving seniors’ access to good nutrition, the program gains market access for farmers participating in farmers’ markets across the state. There are currently 98 certified farmers’ markets participating in the program.

Additionally, KDA is launching a pilot program with a focus on helping veterans at farmers’ markets in the state. The Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Veteran Program is for lower-income senior veterans who may not have access to fresh food or the resources to afford them.

“Serving our country is one of the most admirable things a person can do,” Quarles said. “While we can’t fully repay someone for their service, this program will at the very least provide help for some of our most vulnerable veterans. Although we are beginning the pilot phase now, our hope is to be able to expand this program for all of our senior veterans throughout the state.”

Christian, Fayette, Hardin and Madison Counties will be participating in this program. According to the KDA, signups are on a first-come, first-serve basis. Those participating receive $48 in vouchers, redeemable for fresh farm fruits and vegetables, cut cooking herb, and honey at participating farmers’ market locations. For information on voucher information and availability contact the distribution area for the participating county.

In order to qualify, participants must be 60 years old plus one day at the date of issuance, be able to provide their proof of veteran status and meet income requirements.

Distribution areas for each county are: