News Summary

The South Carolina Department of Social Services has launched the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program, aiding seniors aged 60 and over. The initiative provides five $10 vouchers for purchasing fresh produce at local farmers’ markets. Eligible seniors must reside in participating counties and meet income requirements. The program begins on June 1, promoting nutrition and supporting local farmers. Public information hearings will be held to engage the community and ensure access to healthy food options for older residents.

Aiken, South Carolina – The South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS) has officially launched the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) for the year 2025. This initiative includes participation from all counties in the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA), providing vital access to fresh fruits and vegetables for eligible seniors aged 60 and older.

The SFMNP is a seasonal initiative funded through a grant from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), designed specifically to help seniors improve their access to nutrition. Participants in the program will receive five vouchers worth $10 each, enabling them to purchase produce from authorized farmers’ markets throughout the state. The program is set to commence on June 1, 2025, providing an opportunity for thousands of older South Carolinians to benefit from this seasonal offering.

To be eligible for the SFMNP, applicants must meet specific criteria. Seniors must be at least 60 years old, reside in one of the participating counties, and possess a household income that does not exceed 185% of the federal poverty income limit. Notably, individuals residing in Dorchester County may qualify for $50 in free vouchers, which can be used at local markets for fresh produce.

Vouchers will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, and supplies may be limited. To qualify for the Dorchester County vouchers, applicants need to present a valid South Carolina driver’s license or ID card that reflects their current address. Additionally, applications must be completed in person at approved local senior-serving organizations to ensure proper registration and distribution.

The South Carolina Office of Resilience (SCOR) has organized public information hearings in Aiken County on Tuesday and will also hold a session in Orangeburg County in June. These meetings are designed to inform seniors about the program and how they can benefit from it, thereby promoting community engagement and support for local farmers through enhanced market access.

Each summer, around 24,000 seniors in South Carolina benefit from the SFMNP. This program not only increases access to nutritious food for older residents but also supports local South Carolina farmers, as all items purchased with SFMNP vouchers must be grown within the state. This aspect of the program contributes to local economies and promotes the importance of fresh, locally sourced produce.

In addition to the SFMNP, independent organizations, such as the Serenity Charity Club and the YMCA, provide support through summer feeding programs for children, further highlighting community efforts to combat food insecurity across all age groups.

Individuals seeking more information about the program, its distribution dates, and locations can visit the South Carolina DSS website, which will provide ongoing updates and resources for senior residents looking to participate in the SFMNP.

In summary, the 2025 Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program presents a strategic partnership between state agencies and local communities aimed at enhancing the quality of life for seniors by ensuring they have access to nutritious food options while simultaneously uplifting local agricultural sectors. This initiative reflects a commitment to fostering health, well-being, and economic stability within South Carolina’s senior population.

South Carolina Launches Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program

News Summary

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Additional Resources

Author: hereaiken