Older adults eligible to apply can be awarded $80 in fresh produce from local markets

The Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) is accepting applications for older adults in Lewis, Mason and Thurston counties to receive $80 for fresh fruits, vegetables and honey at participating local farmers markets.

SFMNP is an annual no-cost benefit provided through the U.S. Department of Agriculture that also receives state and local funding.

The organization provides nutrition to a demographic facing rising food insecurities.

In a report by Feeding America, 39 counties were ranked according to their food insecurity rates in Washington state. Lewis County ranked 12th, Mason County ranked 13th and Thurston County was listed as 31st place.

According to a news release from Lewis-Mason-Thurston Area Agency on Aging, addressing food insecurity is a top priority of their 2024-2027 Area Plan.

Applications for SFMNP will close Saturday, Aug. 31, and applicants must meet some criteria in order to be eligible. Applicants must be 60 years of age or older, or 55 and older for Native Alaskan and Native American people. They must also have an income below 185% of federal poverty level and be a resident of Washington state.

For more information and to apply for SFMNP, visit lmtaaa.org/farmersmarket or call 360-664-2168 directly for personalized assistance.