The Seattle Human Services Department has announced the opening of its application process for the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program, an innovative initiative that provides low-income seniors with $40 vouchers that can be exchanged for fresh produce at participating farmers markets, roadside stands, and community supported agriculture programs throughout King County.
“Access to quality and affordable fresh fruits and vegetables is critical to achieving and maintaining healthy lifestyles for older adults,” said Catherine Lester, Director, Seattle Human Services Department. “I am proud that through this program, the City and its partners have helped more than 5,000 older adults take advantage of fresh, nutritious, locally-grown fruits, vegetables, and other farmers market products each year.”
King County residents, age 60 or older (age 55 or older if American Indian/Alaska Native) with incomes at or below 185 percent of Federal Poverty Level are eligible to apply. To qualify, an older adult living alone must earn a monthly income at or below $1,815. A household of two must earn less than $2,456 per month.
Completed applications must be postmarked on or before May 15, 2015. Due to limited funding, qualified applicants will be selected through a random process. All applicants will receive mail notification of the status of their application on or before July 1, 2015.
Applications are available online or by calling any of the organizations listed below:
- African American Elders Program: 206-328-6840
- Asian Counseling & Referral Service: 206-695-7510
- Chinese Information & Service Center: 206-624-5633 ext 4178
- Latino Information & Assistance: 206-764-4700
- Neighborhood House: 206-571-5080
- Russian Information & Assistance (Irina at JFS): 206-861-8787
- Seattle Mayor’s Office for Senior Citizens: 206-684-0500
- Senior Information & Assistance (206-448-3110 or 1-888-4ELDERS)
A chart containing the 2015 Federal Poverty Level Guidelines by family size can be found here. In addition, a searchable list of local markets that may accept the vouchers can be found on the Washington State Farmers Market Association website.
