Farmers market vouchers available for low-income seniors in tri-county

A federal grant program is returning this summer to Sumter, Clarendon and Lee counties to help low-income seniors get access to fresh, nutritious produce and, in the process, support South Carolina's small farmers.

The seasonal Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program allows low-income senior citizens aged 60 or older to buy unprocessed fruits and vegetables from authorized farmers markets, roadside stands and community-supported agriculture programs now through Oct. 15.

Starting as a pilot program in six counties in May 2001, the SFMNP, administered by the South Carolina Department of Social Services and counties' Agencies on Aging, has expanded to 41 of the state's 46 counties.

Participants receive $25 in the form of five checks of $5 each to spend at authorized locations. Checks are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

ELIGIBILITY PROCESS

To participate in the program, low-income seniors must:

- Attend a distribution event;

- Complete the application;

- Provide proof of identity and residence in the county;

- Self-declare amount of household income; and

- If eligible, receive the benefit.

Individuals wishing to apply for home-bound seniors must provide a statement from the senior granting permission to submit an application on his or her behalf. Proof of identity and proof of income for the home-bound senior must be presented at the time of application.

For more information, contact Stacey Richardson at (803) 898-0973 or Seandra Kelly at (803) 898-1760.

Locations issuing vouchers

SUMTER COUNTY

Sumter Senior Services - Delaine Center

5400 Cane Savannah Road, Wedgefield

June 13: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Sumter Senior Services - Shiloh St. John Center

475 Pudding Swamp Road, Lynchburg

June 14: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Sumter Senior Services

119 S. Sumter St., Sumter

June 15: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

CLARENDON COUNTY

Paxville Community Center

1018 Lewis Road, Manning

June 12: 10 a.m.-noon

Turbeville Town Hall

1400 Main St., Turbeville

June 13: 10 a.m.-noon

Summerton Senior Center

1154 BO Butler St., Summerton

June 14: 1-3 p.m.

Manning Senior Center

206 S. Church St., Manning

June 15: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

LEE COUNTY

Lee County Council on Aging

51 Wilkinson Road, Bishopville

June 2-9: 9 a.m.-noon