ANNAPOLIS, MD (May 19, 2025) ~ Annapolis, MD - The Maryland Department of Agriculture has announced that the state-wide online application for the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) is now open. This program aims to provide low-income older adults, aged 60 and above, with a one-time annual benefit of $50 to purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and honey directly from farmers at farmers markets and farm stands across the state.

The application can be found on the department's main website and will remain open until all benefits have been distributed. Eligible applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. To qualify for the program, individuals must have an income of 185 percent or less of the federal poverty level.

Recipients will receive a card with an embedded QR code that they can use to pay for their purchases at participating farmers markets or farm stands. Depending on their local jurisdiction, recipients will either receive their card in the mail or be required to pick it up at a designated location coordinated by their local Area Agency on Aging.

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For those who need assistance with the online application process, they can reach out to their local Area Agency on Aging for support. The department has also provided a directory of Maryland farmers markets and farm stands that accept federal nutrition benefits such as SFMNP.

In addition to this program, many farmers markets also participate in the Maryland Market Money program. This allows participants using federal nutrition benefits to receive matching funds at participating markets, increasing their purchasing power. Currently, there are over 100 farmers markets across Maryland that have at least one farmer authorized to accept SFMNP benefits.

Sara Servin, Farmers Market Nutrition Program Coordinator, encourages eligible individuals to take advantage of this opportunity and reach out with any questions they may have about the program. She can be contacted at sara.servin@maryland.gov.

The SFMNP not only supports low-income older adults but also promotes local agriculture by connecting them directly with farmers. This program not only benefits the recipients but also the community as a whole. So, if you or someone you know is eligible for this program, don't hesitate to apply and enjoy fresh, locally grown produce.

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