Update July 22

The Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) helps older Iowans access fresh, locally grown produce. This year, funding for the program was reduced and agencies such as Milestones received far fewer vouchers than had been received last year and in years past. The USDA indicated that an unconfirmed number of additional vouchers may be received in August, however how many vouchers and when they will be received is not known at this time.  Milestones is currently placing eligible individuals on a waitlist in the order of when their application was received. Additional vouchers will be distributed to those seniors if and when they become available.

There were concerns earlier in the year that this program may not be funded. Fortunately it continued, but the decreased allotment has meant many who have benefited in the past will not be able to participate this year. If you value the Farmer’s Market Nutrition Program, we kindly encourage you to share your thoughts with the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship at (515) 281-5321 or contact your elected officials:

Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks: Davenport (563) 232-0930, DC (202) 225-6576, millermeeks.house.gov

Rep. Zach Nunn: Ottumwa (641) 220-9641, DC (202) 225-5476, nunn.house.gov

Sen. Joni Ernst: Davenport (563) 322-0677, DC (202) 224-3254, ernst.senate.gov/contact

Sen. Chuck Grassley: Davenport (563) 322-4331, DC (202) 224-3744, grassley.senate.gov