Farmers’ Market Senior Coupons Available

In a press release dated May 23^rd, Virginia Program For Aging Services announced it is collaborating with other organizations this summer to increase access to nutrition in Highland County, in an ongoing effort to help older adults lead healthy and engaged lives, Older adults with limited income may be eligible to receive $40 in coupons to purchase fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables, and cut herbs from participating farmers at the Highland Farmer’s Market this summer, thanks to the FARM MARKET FRESH FOR SENIORS PROGRAM.  The program is jointly sponsored by Valley Program for Aging Services, 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 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 and live in Highland County; have a monthly income of no more than $1,561for a single person, or $2,114  for a couple; have transportation to the Farmer’s 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 coupons are valid  from July 1st – mid November. Interested individuals can contact Harmony Leonard, Highland Senior Services Coordinator, VPAS, 49 Spruce Street, Monterey, VA, (540) 468-2178, to determine eligibility and availability of coupons.