ANDERSON, SC - On June 5 and 6, Anderson County Seniors may apply for produce vouchers as part of the Senior Farmer’s Market Nutrition Program. The Anderson County Senior Citizen Program and the Anderson County Farmer’s Market, in partnership with the South Carolina Department of Social Services and other state agencies, will issue vouchers to eligible senior citizens. The vouchers can be used to purchase produce at local farmer’s markets. Each eligible person will receive $25 worth of coupons that may be used at participating farmer’s markets through October 15, 2008.

The vouchers will be issued on a first-come, first-served basis until the supply is exhausted. Voucher application locations:

• June 5 at 8 a.m.: Belton Senior Center next to the Belton Farmer’s Market
• June 6 at 8 a.m.: Anderson County Farmer’s Market, 402 Murray Ave., Anderson

Individuals age 60 or older, with a low monthly income ($1,604/month), or who receive SSI or Food Stamp benefits are eligible for these free coupons. Individuals must apply in person; provide proof of their identity (photo ID or driver’s license), age and their Anderson County residency. Information regarding the income of all household members is required to determine eligibility. Verifciation of Social Security numbers is also required.
The Senior Farmer’s Market Nutrition Program’s goal is to supplement the diets of low-income seniors with fresh, nutritious produce while supporting South Carolina’s small farmers. South Carolina is one of several states that receives funds from the USDA to operate this program.

UPCOMING SENIOR EVENTS:

• May 23 – Luncheon honoring Outreach Entertainers, Jo Brown Center
• May 30 – 2nd Annual Leadership Appreciation Brunch, Jo Brown Center
• June 5 – Produce voucher distribution, Belton Senior Center, 8 a.m.
• June 6 – Produce voucher distribution, Farmer’s Market, Anderson, 8 a.m.
• June 10 – Happy Hearts Line Dancing, Williamston Town Hall gymnasium, every Tuesday