The state is ready to kick off the 2004 version of the Missouri Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program, which provides lower income senior citizens with help purchasing locally grown fruits and vegetables. Lieutenant Governor Joe Maxwell, the state’s advocate for the elderly, says seniors will have to meet certain guidelines to be eligible, including an annual income at or below 185 percent of the federal poverty guidelines. That works out to $17,224 for a single person and $23,107 for a married couple. Those who are eligible will be able to receive up to 10 – $3 checkbooks to buy the fruits and vegetables at participating farmers’ markets. Ten counties within the state are offering the program this year, but Maxwell hopes to expand participation in the coming years. Anyone wanting more information is asked to contact the Lieutenant Governor’s office or the State Health Department.
Related web sites:
Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program
Lieutenant Governor Joe Maxwell
