Serving Older Adults, Supporting Local: Rhode Island’s Fresh Food Initiative to Make an Estimated 10,000 Food Vouchers Available
The Department of Environmental Management’s Division of Agriculture and Forest Environment has enhanced Rhode Island’s Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP), aiming to serve around 10,000 eligible older adults with locally grown fruits, vegetables, and honey. This initiative, in collaboration with the Rhode Island Office of Healthy Aging (OHA), seeks to bolster food security funds within the state while providing older adults with improved access to fresh, locally sourced produce and supporting local agriculture. The upgraded program introduces benefit cards preloaded with $50, usable at eligible farmers markets and farm stands, in a model similar to the successful WIC Farmers Market electronic benefit program. These benefit cards will be distributed through senior centers starting May 1, 2024, and can be used until Nov. 30, 2024. The initiative not only aims to increase senior access to nutritious food but also supports local farmers and fosters public-private partnerships. Additionally, efforts are made to reach homebound seniors through partnerships with organizations like Project DASH at DoorDash. By aligning with the Department of Human Services’ SNAP Eat Well, Be Well Pilot Incentive Program, eligible seniors can maximize their access to healthy foods. This initiative underscores the importance of addressing food insecurity among seniors, enhancing their overall health and well-being. Read more…
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