California State Seal

News Release

California Department of Food and Agriculture

Media Contacts: Steve Lyle, CDFA Public Affairs, (916) 654-0462 or slyle@cdfa.ca.gov,

California Department of Food and Agriculture
Release #09-025
Print This Release

SENIOR FARMERS’ MARKET NUTRITION PROGRAM BEGINS IN MAY

Program enables eligible seniors to purchase fruits, vegetables, other nutritious items with check booklets


SACRAMENTO, April 22, 2009 - Low-income seniors will find it a little easier to buy locally grown fruits, vegetables, honey and cut herbs starting in May thanks to California’s Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program.


The California Department of Food and Agriculture teams up with California’s 33 Area Agencies on Aging to distribute check booklets to eligible seniors who will receive one booklet per year. Each booklet consists of 10 checks worth $2 each to be redeemed at certified farmers’ markets.  Checks may be used to purchase fresh, nutritious, unprepared, locally grown fruits, vegetables, honey and cut herbs.


The program aims to increase low-income seniors’ consumption of agricultural commodities and encourages seniors to consider farmers’ markets as a regular source of wholesome nutrition.  Approximately 350 certified farmers’ markets throughout the state have applied and been approved to participate in this program.


CDFA receives funding for this program from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) through its Food and Nutrition Service. The agency has allocated approximately $800,000 for the state’s program in 2009.  California’s annual program runs from May through November.


Seniors interested in participating in the program can find their local Area Agency on Aging (listed by county) by contacting CDFA’s Federal Funds Management Office via email at grants@cdfa.ca.gov, or via phone at (916) 657-3231.  The list and other information about the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program are also available online at www.cdfa.ca.gov/seniorfarmersmrktnutritionprgm/
 
-30-


The California Department of Food and Agriculture protects and promotes California’s agricultural industry. California’s farmers and ranchers produce a safe, secure supply of food, fiber and shelter; marketed fairly for all Californians; and produced with responsible environmental stewardship.


CDFA Protects
Follow CDFA News on Twitter and Facebook
California Department of Food and Agriculture Office of Public Affairs
1220 N St., Ste. 214, Sacramento, CA 95814
916-654-0462, www.cdfa.ca.gov