Apr 7th 2008, 08:59

Gov’t Brings Fresh Eats to Needy Seniors

Although the effects of aging can strike through every aspect of an individual's life, the most obvious changes can be seen in an older person's body and his ability to prevent or recover from illness. Good health — and its constant maintenance — is a serious concern for senior citizens all over the country. Older people have to be more careful about keeping themselves healthy, and getting the proper amount of nutrition is a crucial factor in keeping fit and living a longer, fuller life.

For some seniors, however, getting the right kind of nutrition can be costly, especially at a time when food prices are at an all-time high. Thankfully, there's a way for low-income seniors to gain access to fresh produce without having to put a strain on their budget. Through the Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP), senior citizens can receive coupons that may be traded in for fresh, unprepared, locally-grown fruits, vegetables, and herbs from farmers' markets, roadside stalls, and community-backed agricultural programs. Small farmers and local economies also stand to profit from the arrangement by means of increased sales, marketing opportunities, and ultimately, a stronger and more robust local economy.

Under SFMNP guidelines, grants will be awarded by the U.S. government to States, U.S. territories, and state-recognized Indian tribal governments for the benefit of senior citizens all over the country. If you're at least 60 years old and your household income does not go over 185% of the federal poverty income guidelines, you're already eligible to take part in the program. Other state agencies will even consider your participation in other low-income programs (e.g., Commodity Supplemental Food Program, Food Stamp Program, etc.,) as proof of your eligibility to receive support from the SFMNP.

The projected national budget for the SFMNP for 2008 is pegged at nearly $15,000,000. To find out more about the program, please contact your local State agency through www.fns.usda.gov/wic/SeniorFMNP/SeniorFarmersMarketcontacts.pdf.

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