MEOC accepting Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program applications

Mountain Empire Older Citizens will accept 2020 Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program applications beginning May 1 from persons at least age 60 in Wise County and Norton. 

The federally-funded program aims to increase access to locally-grown fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs for older citizens who meet income guidelines. Those who qualify receive $45 worth of vouchers in $5 increments that can be spent at local farmers markets approved by the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. 

MEOC will have a limited number of vouchers to distribute on a first-come, first-served basis. Each eligible person within a household may receive a book of vouchers. Vouchers can be spent at farmers markets in Norton, Wise, Big Stone Gap and St. Paul beginning June 1 through the end of the markets’ season. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, local farmers market organizers are discussing options for this year’s operations such as call-in and pick-up orders.  

To determine eligibility and apply by telephone, call MEOC at 276-523-4202 or 800-252-6362.  

MORE ABOUT THE PROGRAM

In accordance with federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its agencies, offices and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA.

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g. Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.), should contact the Agency (State or local) where they applied for benefits. Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English. 

To file a program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, (AD-3027) found online at: http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html, and at any USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: 

(1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; 

(2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or 

(3) email: program.intake@usda.gov. 

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.