By Trish Svoboda

Kansans aged 60 or over who meet income guidelines and shop at farmers’ markets in Kansas can improve their health and finances through a program offering vouchers to eligible seniors.

The North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging (NC-FH AAA) announced that applications are now open for the Kansas Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (KSFMNP). This program provides $50 in vouchers to Kansans aged 60 or older who meet income requirements. These vouchers can be used to buy fresh, nutritious, unprepared, locally-grown fruits, vegetables, herbs, and honey from participating farmers at local farmers’ markets.

Julie Govert Walter, Executive Director of NC-FH AAA, noted that the Kansas Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program is a great opportunity for older Kansans to increase their intake of fruits and vegetables while also supporting local farmers and farmers’ markets. She expressed enthusiasm about joining forces with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and other Kansas Area Agencies on Aging for this project.

Walter also noted that the Kansas Department of Health and Environment aims to expand this program to additional counties, as it enhances the success of farmers’ markets and improves nutrition for county residents.

Seniors must be 60 or older to qualify and have an annual gross income at or below $27,861, or $2,322 per month. Vouchers may be used at any participating farmers market from now to November 1, 2024. Vouchers are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

For more information or to apply, visit ncfhaaa.com, or contact the North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging at (800) 432-2703.