Seniors can enjoy more fresh veggies and fruits from area farmers markets this year when they sign up for Mid-Columbia Meals on Wheels’ voucher program.

Low-income seniors can apply to receive free vouchers to use at local certified farmers markets through the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program.

Thanks to increased funding support from state of Washington, each eligible senior can receive up to $80 in vouchers, double the amount provided in past years.

“We are absolutely thrilled that the state was able to increase the voucher benefit this year,” said Kristi Thien, nutrition services director for Mid-Columbia Meals on Wheels, in a news release. “We feel that this boost shows a real commitment to the well-being of Washington’s senior community. With ever-rising grocery prices, this increase is incredibly well timed. The voucher program helps our seniors access fresh, diverse, healthy food while supporting our important local agricultural community.”

Eligibility requirements include:

• Must be 60 years old or older, or a Native American 55 or older.
• One-person household: Receive a monthly income of $25,142 annually, or $2,096 monthly.
• Two-person household: Receive a monthly $33,874 annually, or $2,823 monthly. For larger households, add $728 for each additional person.
• Be a Washington resident.

To ensure equity, seniors who are unable to access the markets themselves can appoint a trusted friend or family member to act as a proxy to shop on their behalf.

For a voucher application, seniors can call the Meals on Wheels office at 509-735-1911 or email [email protected].

Applications also are available online at seniorliferesources.org.