Produce vouchers available for seniors

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On June 4-6, Anderson County seniors may apply for produce vouchers as part of the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program for Seniors. The Anderson County Senior Citizens Program and Anderson County, in partnership with the South Carolina Department of Social Services and other state agencies, will issue vouchers to eligible senior citizens.

Vouchers can be used to purchase produce at participating farmer’s markets through November 2014. Each eligible person will receive $25 worth of coupons. Vouchers are issued on a ‘first come- first serve’ basis until the supply is exhausted. EBT is accepted year-round.

“For the past few years, Anderson County Senior Citizens have been given the opportunity to supplement their diets with fresh, healthy and local produce,” said Anderson County Councilman Tommy Dunn. “When residents spend their vouchers at our Farmers Markets, they are supporting our county’s farmers and our local economy also gets a healthy boost from those dollars spent. I want to encourage everyone to help us get the word out about this beneficial program and also to remember to support our local farmers at the Anderson County Farmers Market.”

Individuals aged 60 or older, with a low monthly income, or who receive SSI or Food Stamp benefits are eligible for these free coupons. Individuals must apply in person; provide proof of their identity, age and their Anderson County residency. Applicants must also meet household income eligibility limits. Information regarding the income of all household members is required to determine eligibility. Verification of Social Security numbers is also required.

Individuals wishing to apply for homebound seniors must provide a statement from the senior granting permission to submit an application on their behalf. Proof of identity and proof of income for the homebound senior must be presented at time of application.

The Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program’s goal is to supplement the diets of low-income seniors with fresh, nutritious produce while supporting South Carolina’s small farmers. South Carolina is one of several states that receive funds from the USDA to operate this program.

Application for vouchers will be at the following locations & available first come, first served:

June 4 at 8 am: Iva Farmer’s Market

June 5 at 8 am: Belton Farmer’s Market

June 6 at 8 am: Anderson County Farmer’s Market

For more information about the Senior Voucher program, please contact Anderson County Seniors Program Manager, Kelly Jo Barnwell at 231.2237.