Senior Farm Direct Nutrition Program (SFDNP)
What is SFDNP?
The SFDNP, funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), provides low-income, eligible seniors with checks that can be used to purchase fresh locally grown fruit, vegetables and cut herbs. The checks can only be used at approved farm stands and farmers' markets. The program is intended to improve nutrition for Oregon seniors and support local Oregon farmers.
How does it work?
Each spring, seniors are notified by mail if they are eligible to participate in the program. Oregon does not receive enough funding to provide benefits to every senior that is eligible. Seniors who choose to participate in the program will have their applications processed in the order received by the Oregon Health Authority (OHA). OHA will randomly select names from the applications received by the date indicated on the seniors' application letter. Applications received after funding for the program has expired, will be put on a waiting list in the order received. If additional funds are received for the program, seniors on the waiting list will be notified.
Seniors who are eligible to participate in the program will receive $32 in Farm Direct checks. These checks can be used to purchase locally grown produce at participating farm stands and farmers' markets. The checks may be spent between June 1 and October 31 in the year the checks are received.
Am I eligible?
To be eligible for the program, seniors must meet ALL of the following criteria:
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Be at least 60 years old by April 1 of the current year;
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Be receiving either SNAP benefits or Medicaid on April 1 of the current year;
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Have income below 135% of the Federal Poverty Level in the current year;
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Be living in a situation where food is not provided for them, such as their own home or apartment.
2012 Farm Direct Nutrition Program fact sheet
DHS Healthy Aging and Nutrition resources
Contact information
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