Columbia, South Carolina – The Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) for 2024 kicked off on June 1. This program is aimed at improving the diets of low-income seniors by providing them access to fresh and healthy produce, while also supporting local farmers in South Carolina. Funded by a USDA grant, the program enables eligible seniors to buy unprocessed fruits and vegetables directly from approved farmers’ markets, roadside stands, and community-supported agriculture initiatives.
This year, each qualified participant will receive a total of $50, distributed in five $10 checks, to be used at specified locations. Seniors interested in the program must go to an approved site in their home county to fill out an application and show a photo ID. If they meet the criteria, they can get their checks immediately. The program processes applications and distributes the checks on a first-come, first-served basis within the applicant’s county.
To be eligible for the SFMNP, residents of South Carolina need to be at least 60 years old and have an annual income not exceeding $26,973 for single individuals or $36,482 for couples. Applicants must also declare their household size and provide valid identification.
To find a local distribution center by county, please click here. For a list of authorized farmers’ markets, please click here.
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SFMNP is available in all 46 counties this year thanks in part to SCDSS’ commitment to community partnerships and collaboration with senior serving organizations and non-profits throughout the state. SCDSS is continuing the partnership with Coastal Carolina National Bank (CCNB), to process the payments for the program. SCDSS appreciates CCNB for their support and partnership in helping to serve senior citizens and families. The SFMNP is administered by the South Carolina Department of Social Services. For more information, contact Willie Nixon at (803) 898-1760 or email [email protected].
This year, the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) is available across all 46 counties in South Carolina. This widespread availability is due to the dedicated efforts of the South Carolina Department of Social Services (SCDSS), which has fostered strong community ties and collaborations with organizations that support seniors and various non-profits across the state. Additionally, SCDSS continues its partnership with Coastal Carolina National Bank (CCNB) to handle the program’s payments. SCDSS is grateful for CCNB’s ongoing support and collaboration in assisting the state’s senior citizens and families. The SFMNP is managed by SCDSS. For further details, you can reach out to Willie Nixon at (803) 898-1760 or email mailto:[email protected].
For more information about the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program please click here.
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