(Image: Department of Social Services logo)

(Image: Department of Social Services logo)

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– SCDSS says the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) will be returning next month to help low-income seniors.

According to the Dept. of Social Services, the program aims to help low-income seniors get fresh, nutritious produce while supporting South Carolina’s local farmers.

The seasonal USDA grant program allows qualifying seniors to purchase unprocessed fruits and vegetables from authorized farmers’ markets, roadside stands, and community-supported agriculture programs beginning on June 1.

Eligible people will receive $50 in the form of five checks ($10 each) to spend at participating authorized locations, says DSS.

DSS says qualifying seniors will need to visit a designated location in their county of residence, complete an application, and present photo identification to participate.

If approved, qualified seniors will receive their checks the same day.

Applications will be accepted, and checks will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis in the senior’s county of residence.

To qualify, South Carolina residents must be age 60 or older with a yearly income of $27,861 or less ($37,814 for 2 people), report their household size (jointly or separately), and have a legal form of identification.

To find a local distribution center by county click here.

For more information on the SFMNP, contact Willie Nixon at (803) 898-1760 or email [email protected].