| Baton Rouge: While more than 13,500 Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) coupon booklets have already been mailed to senior citizens this year, there are still funds available for the program, Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain D.V.M., said.
“We want all seniors that think they may qualify for the program to sign-up with their local Council on Aging office,” Strain said. “This is an opportunity for senior citizens to receive a little help with their grocery bill.”
To participate, a person must be at least 60-years-old and earn less than 185 percent of poverty level. Strain said for a one-person household, the annual household income level should be $20,036 or less, the annual household income level in a two person household should be $26,955 or less.
Seniors who qualify will receive a booklet of five $4-coupons totaling $20, which may be used only to buy fresh fruits, vegetables, cut herbs and honey approved by the FMNP from approved farmers at farmers markets and roadside stands.
The coupons must be redeemed by Nov. 30, 2009.
Seniors who receive commodities through the USDA – Food for Seniors Program; those who have a Letter of Eligibility for the Louisiana Purchase Card (food stamps); those who have a Letter of Eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (SSI); or those who receive Medicaid are pre-qualified for the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program.
Strain said all seniors, even those who pre-qualify, must sign-up with a local Council on Aging office to apply for the program.
For more information about the Farmers Market Nutrition Program, call (985) 345-9483. |
