New 2025 program gives qualifying Missourians age 60+ a $50 seasonal voucher for fresh produce, herbs, and honey improving senior nutrition while driving sales for local farmers’ markets
Lower-income older adults in Missouri now have a new opportunity to access fresh produce through the 2025 Missouri Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program.
This initiative, managed by the Missouri Department of Agriculture, provides a $50 benefit to qualifying seniors, allowing them to purchase fresh vegetables, fruits, cooking herbs, and local honey from authorized vendors at farmers markets and roadside stands.
The program operates from May through October, offering a important resource for seniors who are age 60 or older and have an income within 185% of the federal poverty level in participating counties.
One of the key agencies facilitating enrollment is the University of Missouri Extension, which collaborates with local contacts and organizes events to assist seniors in signing up.
In 2024, the MU Extension played a significant role in distributing $42,871 worth of local produce to more than 1,200 seniors, demonstrating the program’s impact on the community.
A survey conducted among participants revealed that 77% consumed more vegetables and fruits because of the program, highlighting its effectiveness in promoting healthier eating habits among seniors.
Lynn Pickerel, strategic communications associate for MU Extension Health and Human Sciences, noted that feedback from past participants has been overwhelmingly positive.
Comments from seniors included praise for the farmers market as a “great place to get fresh produce” and appreciation for the financial support provided through the program.
This initiative not only enhances the dietary habits of seniors but also supports local farmers by increasing the demand for their products.
The Missouri Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program represents a meaningful step toward addressing food insecurity among older adults while simultaneously boosting the local agricultural economy.
For those interested in learning more about the program, additional information is available through the Missouri Grown website, ensuring that eligible seniors can easily access the resources they need.
By continuing to support and expand such initiatives, Missouri is taking significant strides in promoting health and well-being among its senior population, while fostering a stronger connection between consumers and local farmers.
