South Carolina’s Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program returns June 1 to help seniors buy fresh produce from local farmers.
COLUMBIA, S.C. — South Carolina’s Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program will return June 1, providing low-income seniors with assistance to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables from local farmers across the state.
The Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program, administered by the South Carolina Department of Social Services, is designed to help supplement the diets of seniors while also supporting local agriculture.
According to the agency, eligible participants in 2026 will receive $50 in the form of five $10 paper checks that can be used at authorized farmers’ markets, roadside stands and mobile markets.
Officials said applications and check distribution will be handled on a first-come, first-served basis in each senior’s county of residence.
To qualify, South Carolina residents must be at least 60 years old, have an annual income of $28,953 or less for an individual or $39,128 or less for a two-person household, report household size and present a legal form of identification.
Qualified seniors must apply in person at a designated distribution site within their county and, if approved, will receive their checks the same day.
The program will be available in all 46 South Carolina counties this year.
SCDSS said the program is funded through a seasonal grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and allows seniors to purchase unprocessed fruits and vegetables from approved vendors.
Officials also said the agency is continuing its partnership with Coastal Carolina National Bank to process payments for the program.
For additional information about the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program, residents can contact Willie Nixon at 803-898-1760 or email SFMNP-Applications@dss.sc.gov.