The Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) aims to provide older adults in Chautauqua County with increased access to fresh produce. This initiative, part of a USDA Ag & Markets program, is coordinated with the Office for Aging Services (OFAS). Eligible low-income seniors receive a coupon booklet valued at $25, which can be used at participating local farm stands and farmers markets.
Eligibility criteria require participants to be 60 years or older, with income thresholds set at $2,412 per month for single-person households, $3,260 for two-person households, and $4,108 for three-person households. The coupon booklets are distributed between July 1st and September 30th on a first-come, first-served basis. Each person is limited to one booklet.
Public distributions are planned at various locations:
– Dunkirk Farmers Market: Wednesday, July 9th
– Lakewood Farmers Market: Thursday, July 10th
– Jamestown Farmers Market: Saturday, July 12th
– Fredonia Farmers Market: Saturday, July 12th
– Westfield Farmers Market: Saturday, July 12th
Office locations include:
– Dunkirk Office at 51 East 3rd St.
– Mayville Office at 7 N Erie St.
– Jamestown Office at 107 Institute Ave.
Remaining booklets after public distributions will be available for walk-ins from Monday, July 21st.
For more information about programs offered by the Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services or to register for updates via text, email or automated call, visit their website or contact NY Connects at 716-753-4582.
Carey Skelton encourages making simple and healthy daily choices as part of a journey towards wellness. “We know the healthy choice is not always the easiest choice,” said Skelton. “But small changes can make a big difference.”
SNAP-Ed materials supporting this initiative are funded by USDA’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. These efforts also receive support from the New York State Office for the Aging and other agencies. There is no endorsement by the State of New York implied in these activities.
