KDHE
TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has announced that the Kansas Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (KSFMNP) is increasing the value of coupons for low-income seniors from $35 to $50. The coupons are given out on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Seniors can apply at local distribution agencies, including the Cottonwood Extension District office, 601 Main, Hays, between Thursday, June 1 and Friday, September 15, 2023, or until benefits are gone.
The coupons will be sent at once and available in $5 increments. These coupons can be redeemed from authorized vendors at participating farmers' markets, which will be identified with signage showing they are authorized to accept the coupons.
Seniors are eligible if they complete an application and are 60 years or older or at least 55 years old and a member of an Indian Tribal Organization. Eligible seniors must also have an annual gross household income (before taxes are withheld) at or below 185% of the federal poverty level.
Eligible foods to purchase with the KSFMNP coupons from authorized farmers at participating farmers markets are defined as fresh, nutritious, unprepared, locally grown fruits, vegetables, locally produced honey and cut herbs produced in Kansas under normal growing conditions.
“The KSFMNP helps support Kansas seniors and our local Kansas farmers at farmers markets,” said Courtney Koenig, KSFMNP coordinator. “The program is great because it brings new people to the markets, increases sales for farmers and provides nutritious foods to people who need it.”
Seniors can find more information on the KSFMNP coupons by visiting the KSFMNP website.