DEM Program Expands Access to Fresh Food for Older Adults in Rhode Island

Access to healthy, affordable food is a cornerstone of healthy aging—but for many older adults in Rhode Island, it remains out of reach. According to the Rhode Island Food Policy Council, nearly 1 in 10 older adults in the state experience food insecurity, meaning they lack consistent access to the nutritious food they need to maintain their health and independence.

That’s why the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) is relaunching the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) this summer. Starting June 1, the program will distribute 5,000 benefit cards worth $50 each to eligible older adults across the state. These cards can be used to purchase fresh, RI Grown fruits, vegetables, and honey at approved farmers markets and farm stands through November 30.

In addition to helping older adults access nutritious, local food, the program supports Rhode Island farmers and helps keep food assistance dollars circulating in local communities. DEM is also partnering with Farm Fresh Rhode Island to deliver fresh produce boxes directly to older adults who are homebound or face barriers to getting to a market.

To learn more about eligibility or to sign up, visit: www.dem.ri.gov/sfmnp