Blair Senior Services has announced the Senior Citizen Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program in Blair County.
According to a press release issued to The Daily Herald, the program issues checks for income-eligible older adults to exchange for fruits and vegetables at local farmers’ markets.
The 2005 program began on June 1. Checks must be picked up by September 30 and used by November 30.
This program allows each eligible individual to receive four $5 checks, for a total of $20 per person. The checks must be used to purchase locally-grown fruits and vegetables at specified locations. Checks must be endorsed only in the presence of Farmers\’ Market personnel.
According to Blair Senior Services, to be eligible to receive a check, individuals must be 60-years-of-age or older, a resident of Blair County, and have a total income for 2004 of $17,705 or under for an individual, or $23,736 or under for a couple. Proof of age and residency, such as a driver’s license or photo ID, are required.
Checks are available at the Bellwood Senior Center on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. For information, phone 742-7332.
Checks are also available at the Tyrone Senior Center on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. For information, phone 684-7853.
A list of participating markets that details operating hours, locations and contact information is available at any senior center.
“I hope that all eligible, older individuals will stop by the agency or their local senior center as soon as possible, so that they are ready to use their checks when the supply of produce becomes plentiful. The 2005 food pyramid, a standard nutritional guide, recommends a minimum of four and one/half cups of fruits and vegetables per adult daily. The Farmers\’ Market Nutrition Program helps people to achieve that goal,” according to Barry Piper, community services manager of nutrition for Blair Senior Services.
“In addition to encouraging older adults to eat a healthier diet by including fresh fruits and vegetables, the program also helps to support area farmers.”
