Eligible Adams County senior citizens can receive assistance purchasing fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables through the Pennsylvania Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP), with vouchers available through the Adams County Office for Aging.

The program is designed to help lower-income older adults improve access to nutritious foods while also supporting local farmers. Participating growers at the Adams County Farmers Market are familiar with the program and accept FMNP vouchers for eligible purchases.

The Adams County Farmers Market also offers its own nutrition incentive for FMNP shoppers, stretching the value of the vouchers even further for qualifying participants.

Applications are available in person or by mail through the Adams County Office for Aging. Seniors can sign up at the agency’s office, located at 318 W. Middle St. in Gettysburg. The application process typically takes about five minutes.

Residents seeking more information or wishing to apply may contact the Adams County Office for Aging by calling (717) 334-9296 or emailing winebren@acofa.org.

Market organizers are encouraging community members to share information about the program with eligible family members, friends, and neighbors. They hope to maximize voucher use this season, noting that strong participation demonstrates the need for continued funding.

If a significant number of vouchers go unused, future funding for the Farmers Market Nutrition Program could be reduced, limiting assistance available to seniors in coming years.

The program provides a dual benefit by helping older adults incorporate more fresh produce into their diets while directing additional revenue to local farms and agricultural businesses throughout Adams County.

Source: ACOFA, ACFM, Healthy Adams County