Farmers markets are bursting with vibrant fruit and veggies as summer time continues to strategy. Although very important to general well being, wholesome meals corresponding to these typically come at a steep value. This yr, the South Carolina Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program, which started in 2001, has introduced that it’ll return this summer time, as of May 1, to help with simply that.
While low-cost meals could also be available, Danielle Jones, public info coordinator for SC Department of Social Services, says that they’re typically excessive in energy, fats, and sugar. This program permits individuals to obtain $25 within the type of 5 checks, 5 {dollars} every, to spend at approved farmers’ market places. Checks are distributed on a first-come, first-served foundation to those that qualify.
The undertaking performs a pivotal function in offering recent fruit and veggies to seniors in 41 counties and its want has been emphasised by means of COVID-19 as monetary assets for a lot of are restricted. But Jones says that even earlier than COVID-19, many low-income seniors who dwell in South Carolina and on fastened incomes wrestle to afford the meals they should maintain a wholesome life-style.
Others face obstacles discovering transportation to and from market places. With these within the age vary of 65 and older, the well being threat of being out locally has additionally been heightened all through the previous yr.
Jones says that the division hopes that as vaccinations improve all through the group and threat for the unfold of the COVID-19 virus decreases, extra qualifying seniors will have the ability to make the most of this system.
To qualify, South Carolina residents have to be 60 or older with a yearly earnings of $23,832 or much less, or $32,232 for 2 folks. You additionally must have a legitimate driver’s license, or state-issued ID. At the second, this system will not be obtainable for residents of Bamberg, Berkeley, Greenwood, and Laurens Counties. You can apply by visiting the DSS web site and finishing a web-based utility anytime between May 1 and June 1.
