Free produce for eligible seniors

NEWTON — The Sussex County Department of Human Services, Division of Senior Services is currently sponsoring the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program in Sussex County. Seniors, age 60+ who meet the financial criteria, are eligible to receive $20 worth of vouchers to purchase fresh, New Jersey grown, fruits and vegetables at participating farm stands. Currently there are ten farm stands participating in the Senior Farmers Market Program.

They are as follows: Ideal Farm and Garden Center, Lentini’s Produce, New Summer Farmers’ Market, Newton Winter Farmers’ Market, Olde Lafayette Village Farmers Market, Pochuck Valley Farm, Starbrite Farm, Sussex County Farmers Market at the Fairgrounds, Valley View Farms and Windy Brow Farm.

Seniors must be Sussex County residents and currently have incomes that do not exceed $20,665 annually if single or $27,991 if married. Effective July 1, the maximum income increases to $21,257 for individuals and $28,694 for married couples. A 2012 income tax return, social security statement, valid Medicaid card, valid food stamp verification or bank statement are acceptable proof of income eligibility.

Seniors should note that the PAAD card is no longer acceptable as proof of eligibility. Vouchers can be picked-up at the Sussex County Department of Human Services, Division of Senior Services, One Spring St. – 2 Floor, Newton, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. In addition, vouchers will be distributed at numerous sites as indicated below.

Seniors are welcome to apply and pick-up their vouchers at any of these sites. “The Division of Senior Services encourages and promotes wellness for the seniors of our County, and this program is a great way to support them in eating healthy. In addition, it supports local farmers by purchasing fruits and vegetables grown here in our County,” said Lorraine Hentz, Director for the Sussex County Division of Senior Services.

Franklin Senior Center, George Labance Road, Franklin, Tuesday, July 9, 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Liberty Towers, 32 Liberty St., Newton, Wednesday, July 10, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Sparta Senior Center, Knoll Heights Village, 39 Trapasso Drive, Sparta, Thursday, July 11, 10:30 a.m.– 12:30 p.m.

Brookside Terrace, 33 Mill St., Newton, Thursday, July 18, 12 p.m. - 2 p.m.

Vernon Senior Center, 21 Church St., Vernon, Friday, July 19, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

The Sussex County Department of Human Services, Division of Senior Services, urges all eligible seniors to participate in this program.

If you do not have the ability to visit one of the distribution sites or our office, homebound seniors who qualify may receive vouchers through a proxy. For additional information about the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program, the eligibility requirements or proxy requirements, contact the Sussex County Division of Senior Services at 973-579-0555, ext. 1221 or seniorservices@sussex.nj.us.