This year Farmer’s Market coupons will be arriving by the second week of July and then distributed to senior centers.  The coupons will be out on time this year!  Even better news is the amount of the coupons has doubled to $50 per booklet.  

Local area Farmers Markets are a wonderful resource for people to buy fresh fruits and vegetables. Senior adults in particular need supplement their diet with fresh fruits and vegetables. These coupons can be used to obtain fresh fruits and vegetables at local Farmers Markets and roadside stands at approved locations. The location list will be available in the beginning of August and will be posted on our website. These coupons can be used until the 31st of October. Those receiving the booklets will also receive information on senior nutrition, as well as a list of approved market sites, and a list of times when fruits and vegetables are in season.

The Farmers Market coupons are free for senior adults in Illinois who reach age 60 and have an income that is no more than 185% of the federal poverty level, which in 2023 is $2,248 per month for individuals and $3,040 per month for couples.

The Farmers Market coupons and applications are distributed during normal business hours during the week at the senior citizen centers in your area. These coupons are a great way to supplement the cost of food for older adults on a limited income.

Nutrition for older adults is important for protecting against illness and specific diseases, as well as for providing the energy for the body to heal and ward off injuries. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics reports Calcium, Vitamin D, B12, Potassium, and Dietary Fiber as extremely important nutrients that older adults need to function at their best. Fruits and vegetables provide so many health benefits and supply these needed nutrients. Use of the Farmer’s Market booklets promotes a healthy lifestyle for seniors.

In addition to Farmer’s Market booklets, older adults struggling to afford food should utilize the SNAP program, local food pantries, food commodity programs, as well as the meals served at the senior sites or through the Home-Delivered Meal Program. Senior Centers, Shawnee Alliance, and the Egyptian Area Agency on Aging are available to answer questions about eligibility and connect older adults to the appropriate food benefit programs.

Since the Farmers Market coupons can be used anytime until October 31, it allows senior adults the opportunity to use them as new fresh fruits and vegetables come into season.

For more information, call your local senior center or use the link below to Contact the Egyptian AAA.