Help for Low-Income Seniors
The Seniors Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) is designed to:
- Provide low-income seniors with access to locally grown fruits, vegetables, honey and herbs.
- Increase the domestic consumption of agricultural commodities through farmers' markets, roadside stands, and community supported agricultural programs.
- Aid in the development of new and additional farmers markets, roadside stands, and community support agricultural programs.
Low-income seniors, generally defined as individuals who are at least 60 years old and who have household incomes of not more than 185% of the federal poverty income guidelines.
Common Locations:
- Farmers
- Farmers Markets
- Roadside Stands
SFMNP currently operates in 57 states. Check to see if your state agency operates a SFMNP.
FNS awards grants to states, the District of Columbia, U.S. Territories, and federally-recognized Indian tribal governments. The program is administered by state agencies such as a state Department of Agriculture or Aging.
The Farm Bill provides federal funding for the program. Ninety percent of federal funds support food costs and 10 percent of federal funds support administrative costs of the program.
Links
USDA's Focus on Nutrition Security
The USDA Food and Nutrition Service is working to ensure all communities have access to foods that support good health and well-being. Watch our video, which highlights how FNS nutrition assistance programs help all Americans thrive.
Seniors Farmers Market Nutrition Program Resources
Technical Assistance & Guidance
Research, Analysis & Background
Page updated: August 07, 2023