As farmers markets open for the summer, Whatcom Meals on Wheels and More has prepared to support the local farmers and seniors by mailing out senior farmers market applications.
If eligible, seniors will receive up to $80 in vouchers, fully funded by the USDA. The vouchers are redeemable for produce at the Bellingham, Ferndale and Lynden farmers markets, as well as Bellewood Acres, Cloud Mountain and Terra Verde Farm stores. Within San Juan County, vouchers are redeemable at the San Juan Island and Orcas Island farmers markets, as well as Maple Rock Farm.
Julie Meyers, director of Whatcom Meals on Wheels and More, said vouchers come in 20, $4 coupons and are valid from June 1 to October 31.
The Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) was established in 2001 as a USDA pilot program and was fully established a year later. Since the program started, seniors could redeem $40 vouchers. This year, Washington state doubled the voucher to $80.
“I just think it’s really exciting that we are able to provide $80 this year to each person,” Meyers said. “I think it goes a lot further than the $40.”
As of June 24, about 90 seniors with a Blaine address have participated in the program, Meyers said. The program is still accepting applications, but a limited number of vouchers are available.
“It’s a great program because not only does it provide fresh, local produce for older adults who are lower-income, but it also supports the local farmers,” Meyers said.
In 2020, the SFMNP supported about 725,600 seniors, as well as 14,700 farmers, 2,400 farmers markets, 2,300 roadside stands and 71 community supported agriculture, according to USDA.
To know if you are eligible, go to the Whatcom Council on Aging website at bit.ly/3a0rEek.
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