Fresh Veggies for Seniors: Healthy Benefits Available at Farmers Markets

Fresh and organic vegetables at farmers market

Warm summer days mean a bounty of fruits and vegetables pouring into local farmers markets throughout Mecklenburg County. For older adults, the benefits of eating fresh and healthy include increased mental sharpness, greater resistance to illness, faster recuperation, more energy, and a more positive outlook.

Mecklenburg County’s Senior Nutrition Program, Public Health, and the Charlotte Food Policy Council are collaborating to distribute vouchers for the N.C. Seniors Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP). Eligible senior citizens can receive a $50 voucher per season to purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, raw honey, and fresh cut herbs from specific farmers markets.

Eligibility: 
Mecklenburg County seniors aged 60+ with: 

  • One-person household income of $2,413/month
  • Two-person household income of $3,261/month 

Eligible seniors can sign up to receive the vouchers at designated locations and farmers markets:

Davidson Town Hall: HOMES program event
251 South St., Davidson, NC 28036
Monday, July 7, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Davidson Farmers Market
20 South Main St., Davidson, NC 28036
Saturday, July 12, 9 a.m. to noon

North Meck Community Farmers Market
21445 Catawba Ave., Cornelius, NC 28031
Wednesdays throughout July, 9 a.m. to noon

Matthews Community Farmers Market
188 N. Trade St., Matthews, NC 28105 
Saturday, July 5, 8 a.m. to noon

Uptown Farmers Market
300 S. Davidson St., Charlotte, NC 28202
Saturday, July 5 and Saturday, July 19, 8 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Although the vouchers are being distributed at these locations, seniors can redeem them at any certified farmers market across the state. Vouchers will expire at the end of the summer season. 

Another benefit can be found through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) which is accepted at participating farmers markets. Through Public Health’s Food Security program, residents can use SNAP benefits to double their purchases up to $50.

For additional community signups or more information, please visit CharlotteFoodPolicy.com/SeniorVouchers