Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program Returns June 1st

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DSS Office of Communications & External Affairs
803-898-7602
publicinfo@dss.sc.gov

Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program Returns June 1st

May 18, 2026 – This year's Senor Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) begins June 1, 2026.

SFMNP, one of the most popular annual programs offered at the South Carolina Department of Social Services (SCDSS), is designed to help supplement the diets of low-income seniors with fresh, nutritious produce while supporting South Carolina's local farmers. This seasonal U.S. Department of Agriculture grant program allows qualifying individuals to purchase unprocessed fruits and vegetables from authorized farmers’ markets, roadside stands, and authorized mobile markets.

For 2026, eligible participants will receive $50 in the form of five paper checks ($10 each) to spend at participating authorized locations. Qualified seniors will need to visit a designated location in their county of residence and complete an application and present photo identification to participate. If approved, the qualified senior will receive their checks the same day. Applications will be accepted, and checks will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis in the senior’s county of residence.

To qualify, South Carolina residents must be age 60 or older with a yearly income of $28,953 or less ($39,128 for a household of two), report their household size (jointly or separately), and have a legal form of identification.

To find a local distribution center by county, please click here.

SFMNP is available in all 46 counties this year thanks in part to SCDSS’ commitment to community partnerships and collaboration with senior serving organizations and non-profits throughout the state. SCDSS is continuing the partnership with Coastal Carolina National Bank (CCNB), to process the payments for the program. SCDSS appreciates CCNB for their support and partnership in helping to serve senior citizens and families.

The SFMNP is administered by the South Carolina Department of Social Services. For more information, contact Willie Nixon at (803) 898-1760 or email SFMNP-Applications@dss.sc.gov.

For more information about the Seniors Farmers Market Nutrition Program please visit here.

                                                              ###