2017 Farm Market Fresh for Seniors Program

According to a press release dated June 6^th, the Virginia Program for Aging Services, also known as VPAS, announced that 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 Highland Farmers’ Market this summer, thanks to the Farm Market Fresh for Seniors program, jointly sponsored by the Valley Program for Aging Services, the Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services, and the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.  In addition to supporting senior nutrition, the program also supports local farmers and farmers’ markets in Highland County.  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 Highland County, have a monthly income of no more than $1,508 if you are single or $2,030 as a couple, have transportation to the Farmers’ Market, 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 July 1st and ends in mid-November. Recipients must complete a short form attesting to household income, date of birth, and can determine eligibility for coupons by contacting Harmony Leonard of  Highland Senior Services and the Virginia Program for Aging Services at 35 Spruce Street in Monterey, Virginia and at 540-468-2178.   For more information about the Highland Farmers’ Market, contact manager Cornelia Granbery at 540-468-1922.