OHIO — A new season of Ohio’s Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program kicks off next week, giving eligible Ohioans access to fresh produce.
What You Need To Know
Through the program, eligible seniors will receive access to $50 for fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables, fresh-cut herbs and unprocessed honey
The Ohio Department of Aging (AGE) said enrollment will begin Wednesday, April 22 at noon
Applications for the 2026 season will be available online, and the deadline is Friday, May 22 at 6 p.m.
Through the program, eligible seniors will receive access to $50 for fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables, fresh-cut herbs and unprocessed honey.
The Ohio Department of Aging (AGE) said enrollment will begin Wednesday, April 22 at noon. Applications for the 2026 season will be available online, and the deadline is Friday, May 22 at 6 p.m.
“The Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program is a fantastic way to bring fruits and vegetables into the homes of older Ohioans, while also supporting local farmers,” said AGE Director Ursel J. McElroy. “Providing additional ways for older adults to eat well and make healthy choices is another way we are making Ohio the best place to age in the nation.”
In order to be eligible, Ohioans must be 60-years-old or older and earn less than 185% of the federal poverty level. Ohioans must reapply each year in order to keep receiving benefits.
Program recipients will have the chance to sign up for digital benefits, redeemable with a smartphone app. Physical cards will also be delivered to those who misplaced their 2025 cards, did not obtain a physical card in 2025, or who are signing up for the first time in 2026.
For Ohioans in Athens, Hocking, Meigs, Morgan, Monroe, Noble, Perry and Washington counties, the program is available, but they must sign up through Buckeye Hills Regional Council. For 2026, Ohioans in these counties will receive coupons instead of having access to the app.
“The program supports Ohio’s food and agriculture industry,” AGE said in a news release. “The initiative benefits Ohio’s farmers and farmers’ markets through greater agricultural revenue being brought to Ohio. The SFMNP also improves the local economy and strengthens Ohio’s food system.”
Farmers or markets seeking more information can contact the Ohio Farmers Market Network at Senior@ohiofarmersmarketnetwork.org.