Cape May County Announces Senior Produce Voucher Program

RIO GRANDE, NJ -The Cape May County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce the return of the farm market voucher program for income-eligible Cape May County residents, age 60 years and older. The program was created to promote nutritional health among New Jersey's senior citizens by providing them with locally grown fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs.

"Mom was right when she said to, 'Eat your vegetables!' Eligible residents in Cape May County are encouraged to take advantage of the Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) by participating in the Produce Voucher Program that allows applicants to purchase fresh, healthy produce from participating local farmers' markets", stated Commissioner Will Morey, liaison to the Division of Aging and Disability Services.

The benefit will be a one-time amount of $50 per eligible person, an increase from $25 last year. Instead of paper "checks" or vouchers, everyone will be issued an electronic QR code that is used at Farmers' Markets only, not in grocery stores. Similar to a gift card, the QR code will be printed when the application is processed. Additionally, those with Smart cell phones can access the QR code from their phone.

"This year includes a significant increase to $50 per qualified person via an electronic QR code to purchase locally grown fruit and vegetables. The QR code is easily accessed through your cell phone and if you have any questions just 'lettuce' know.

An added benefit of the program is that it directly supports local farmers and businesses. Partaking in the Produce Voucher Program makes it easier to listen to Mom and eat those veggies," added Morey.

REQUIREMENTS FOR FARMERS' MARKET VOUCHERS

MUST BE:

60 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER

MUST HAVE:

MAXIMUM INCOME OF:

INDIVIDUAL: $2,322/MO $27,861/YR

TWO-PERSON HOUSEHOLD: $3,152/MO $37,814/YR

Interested residents must call the Division of Aging and Disability Services at 609-886-2784 to apply for the program. If all requirements are met, the application will be processed, a QR code issued, and a list of participating Farmers' Markets will be provided. The QR codes will be generated July 1^st through September 30^th and can be redeemed until November 30, 2024.

In person distribution at the office will be on Tuesdays 10:30 - 12:30 and Fridays 1:30 - 3:30 starting the week of July 1^st, 2024.

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