Warm summer days bring an abundance of fruits and vegetables to farmers markets across Mecklenburg County. For older adults, consuming fresh produce offers numerous health benefits such as increased mental sharpness, improved resistance to illness, quicker recovery times, more energy, and a positive outlook.
Mecklenburg County’s Senior Nutrition Program is collaborating with Public Health and the Charlotte Food Policy Council to provide vouchers through the N.C. Seniors Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP). Eligible seniors can receive a $50 voucher per season to purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, raw honey, and fresh cut herbs from specific farmers markets.
To qualify for the program, seniors in Mecklenburg County must be aged 60 or older with a one-person household income of $2,413 per month or a two-person household income of $3,261 per month. Eligible seniors can sign up for vouchers at designated locations:
– Davidson Town Hall: HOMES program event at 251 South St., Davidson on Monday, July 7 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
– Davidson Farmers Market at 20 South Main St., Davidson on Saturday, July 12 from 9 a.m. to noon.
– North Meck Community Farmers Market at 21445 Catawba Ave., Cornelius on Wednesdays throughout July from 9 a.m. to noon.
– Matthews Community Farmers Market at 188 N. Trade St., Matthews on Saturday, July 5 from 8 a.m. to noon.
– Uptown Farmers Market at 300 S. Davidson St., Charlotte on Saturday, July 5 and Saturday, July 19 from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
While these locations distribute the vouchers, they can be redeemed at any certified farmers market statewide until the end of the summer season.
Additionally, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is accepted at participating farmers markets. Through Public Health’s Food Security program, residents using SNAP benefits can double their purchases up to $50.
For further community signups or information about the program, visit CharlotteFoodPolicy.com/SeniorVouchers.
