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Farmers market nutrition · state

Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP)

WA DSHS HCLA

The Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) provides benefits to lower-income older adults to purchase locally grown fruits, vegetables, honey, and herbs. It supports local farming by driving use of farmers markets, roadside stands, and community-supported agriculture; produce is also purchased directly from farmers for delivery to older adults in some areas. Funded through a combination of USDA Farm Bill federal grants plus state and local funding. A mobile app lets participants track benefit balance and purchase history and locate participating vendors. Participants must reapply each year, but cards do not require participant activation, issuing agencies activate them.

Who qualifies

Washington residents age 60 or older, and Native Americans/Alaska Natives age 55 or older, with monthly income below 185% of the federal poverty level.

What it covers

A reloadable e-Benefit card usable at participating farmers markets, roadside stands, and CSAs to purchase locally grown fruits, vegetables, honey, and herbs. The market season runs June 1 through October 31 each year. Purchases authorized by scanning the card and entering a PIN.

Cost

Free to eligible participants. Income must be below 185% of the federal poverty level.

How to apply

Apply through your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) or contracted SFMNP provider before each market season. Reapplication required annually.

Where to get this in Washington

10 organizations deliver this program. Coverage varies, so check the area each one serves.

Source www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/home-and-community-services/senior-farmers-market-nutritio