A Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture is available for low-income seniors from June 1st to September 30th.  South Plainfield residents, 60 years of age or older who meet the criteria set forth by the USDA are invited to participate in the New Jersey Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program sponsored by the NJ Department of Health and Senior Services and administered by the Middlesex County Dept. on Aging. Senior citizens are encouraged to take advantage of the food voucher program, which provides the opportunity to obtain fresh fruits and vegetables at local markets.

The Farmers Market Voucher program is available to single seniors with an income of no more than $19,240.00 a year and married seniors with an income of $25,900 or less.  PRE-REGISTRATION IS MANDATORY in order to participate. Proof of age, residency and income must be included with your registration.  Seniors must show proof of income such as a social security statement, SSI card, Medicaid card or previous year income tax return, and unlike other programs, the PAAD Card cannot be accepted as proof of income.

Distribution begins June 1, 2009 and ends September 30, 2009.  Participants will receive four (4) checks valued at $5.00 each to be redeemed at participating farm stands for fresh produce and herbs.  Eligible seniors are asked to stop at the South Plainfield Senior Center on weekdays between 9am and 3pm to pick up a registration form and program manual.  For more information on this program or any Senior Citizen issue, please contact Center Director Joann Graf at 908-226-7606 or call the Senior Center at 908-754-1047.