Senior Center partners with Farmers Market

Dawn Fleming, News-Topic, Lenoir, N.C.
·2 min read

Jul. 5—LENOIR — Fresh fruits and vegetables are part of balanced diet. In addition to being rich in vitamins and minerals, fresh fruits, vegetables, berries, and nuts are rich in antioxidants and help combat free radicals, leading to improved overall feelings of better health.

The Caldwell Senior Center is participating in the NC Seniors Farmers Market Nutrition Program.

The program offers qualifying Caldwell County seniors the opportunity to receive multiple $3 vouchers, totaling $42, to be used to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables from the local farmers market.

"Caldwell Senior Center is very excited to participate in the North Carolina Seniors Farmers' Market Nutrition Program. The program is a great benefit for seniors in Caldwell County, our local farmers, and our local farmer's market," said April Austin, executive director, Caldwell Senior Center. "We hope that eligible participants will come by the senior center to pick up the vouchers and also take that opportunity to learn about all of the other programs and services that are available."

Caldwell County residents, age 60, or older, who have an individual household income equal to, or less than $2,096 per month, or a couple whose income is equal to, or less than $2,823 per month may qualify for the program.

The vouchers may used during a single purchase, or may used to make multiple separate purchases. The vouchers are valid from July 1 through Sept. 30. The vouchers will not be valid after Sept. 30 and may not be used for baked goods, crafts, cooked foods, honey, eggs, plants, or other non-food items, according to NC DHHS program guidelines.

Seniors who wish to apply to receive the vouchers may visit the Caldwell Senior Center at 650A Pennton Ave SW in Lenoir. Applicants should take verification of Caldwell County residency and and will sign a self-verification of income. For information, call 828-758-2883.

The Caldwell County Farmers Market is located at 902 Harper Ave in Lenoir and is open on Saturday mornings.