What is the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program?
The Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) is a federally funded initiative administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to help low-income seniors purchase fresh, locally grown produce—such as fruits, vegetables, honey, and herbs—from authorized farmers’ markets, roadside stands, and community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs.
It is available in most U.S. states, territories, and Tribal governments. Recipients are generally seniors aged 60 or older with household incomes at or below 185% of the federal poverty level.
Why Does the Program Exist?
SFMNP aims to:
Provide eligible seniors with access to nutritious, unprocessed, locally produced food.
Boost consumption of agricultural commodities from local farms.
Support the expansion of farmers’ markets, roadside stands, and CSAs across communities.
Most federal grant funds—about 90%—go directly toward benefits, while up to 10% may support administrative and educational efforts, such as participant outreach and nutrition education.
How the Program Works
The USDA awards grants to State Agencies (e.g. Departments of Agriculture, Health, or Aging) or Tribal entities to run the SFMNP.
State agencies distribute coupons or electronic card benefits for eligible seniors to use at authorized vendors.
Each state may determine its own benefit amount, within a federal range typically around $20–$50 per person per season.
Examples: Virginia and Michigan
Virginia (Farm Market Fresh Program)
The Virginia FMNP/SFMNP program is run by the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. It provides eligible seniors with benefits to be used at participating farmers' markets across the state. The program promotes local produce purchases and supports Virginia farmers via state and federal grants RIDEMFood and Nutrition Service.
Michigan (Senior Project Fresh/Market Fresh)
Michigan operates a statewide Senior Project Fresh and Market Fresh program serving older adults. These programs distribute vouchers to eligible seniors that can be redeemed for locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables at designated farmers’ markets and stands throughout Michigan USDA.
Who Is Eligible?
Must be a senior (typically 60+ years of age)
Must meet income eligibility (up to about 185% of federal poverty guidelines)
Residency requirements vary by state
State-specific requirements and application details may vary—check with your local agency or state SFMNP administrator.
What Can Be Purchased?
Eligible seniors can use coupons or cards to purchase:
Fresh, unprepared fruits and vegetables
Locally grown herbs
Honey (in some states)
Non-eligible items often include processed foods, dried produce, potted plants, nuts, eggs, maple syrup, cider, and herbs in dried or potted form.
Participating Locations
Eligible purchases must be made at:
Certified farmers’ markets
Roadside stands
Approved CSA programs
Availability varies by state and region. State program websites provide lists of authorized locations.
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