Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program

The Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP):

• Provides benefits to lower-income older adults to purchase locally grown fruits, vegetables, honey, and herbs.

• Supports local farming by increasing the use of farmers markets, roadside stands, and community supported agriculture.  Produce is also purchased directly from farmers for delivery to older adults.

• Is funded through a combination of federal grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) under the Farm Bill as well as state and local funding.

Am I eligible for SFMNP benefits?

Washington residents age 60 or older and Native Americans/Alaska Natives age 55 or older with a monthly income below 185% of the federal poverty level are eligible for SFMNP benefits. Interested individuals must apply to the SFMNP at local agencies before receiving SFMNP benefits each market season.

Where do I apply for SFMNP benefits?

Individuals eligible to receive SFMNP benefits must apply through their local area agencies on aging (AAAs) or contracted SFMNP providers. A list of local contacts can be found here:

• Local Contacts (August 2024)

When can I use my SFMNP benefits?

The SFMNP market season is from June 1 through October 31 each year.

Where can I use my SFMNP benefits?

Look for the “Farmers Market Benefits” sign at these participating farmers markets:

• Participating Farmers Markets - Western Washington
  • Spanish - Mercados agrícolas autorizados – Oeste de Washington
• Participating Farmers Markets - Eastern Washington
  • Spanish - Mercados agrícolas autorizados – Este de Washington
• Participating Farms Stores
  • Spanish - Tiendas Rurales Autorizadas

How do I use SFMNP benefits?

• Vendors will scan your card and participants will enter a PIN number to authorize purchases.
• Present your SFMNP benefit card to a participating vendor to purchase eligible produce and honey.
• Please note: Participants must apply to the program each year but do not need to call a card activation phone line-- benefit cards do not require participant activation. Once an individual is issued benefits, cards will be activated by issuing agencies. 

Resources for Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) and other SFMNP agencies:

• Staff Documents & Translations
• Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program Brochures
• Fruit and Vegetable Brochures
• Recipes
• Fresh From the Farm Newsletters

USDA Nondiscrimination Statement

In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is an equal opportunity provider.  Read the full USDA Nondiscrimination Statement (PDF).