West Virginia faces big challenges — it’s one of the poorest, least healthy states in the U.S. and also has one of the oldest populations. That combination makes it tough for many seniors to get the nutritious food they need. But there’s some good news: help is available, and it’s making a real difference.
The West Virginia Department of Agriculture is once again offering vouchers through the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP), available through October 31. This program gives eligible seniors a chance to buy fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables, herbs, and even honey — all while supporting local farmers.
While seniors must pick up their vouchers in the counties where they live, they can use them at any participating farmers market across the state. That makes the program flexible and easy to use, especially during peak market season.
“These vouchers serve two essential purposes,” said Kent Leonhardt, West Virginia’s Commissioner of Agriculture. “They help improve nutrition for our seniors while also boosting our local farming economy. We want every eligible senior to take full advantage of this.”
But access isn’t just about the vouchers — it’s also about getting there. Local senior centers and county aging offices may offer transportation, but they can’t help everyone. That’s where community comes in.
If you know a senior — maybe a neighbor, church friend, or someone in your local social circle — who could use these vouchers, reach out and offer a hand. Let them know about the program. Maybe invite them to come along when you visit a market yourself. A simple gesture like that could make a big difference in someone’s week — or even their overall health.
West Virginia farmers and officials are working hard to make nutritious food more accessible and affordable. Now it’s up to all of us to help spread the word and make sure those who need it most can take full advantage of this opportunity.
Let’s keep our seniors healthy and our farmers thriving — one market visit at a time.
