farmers markets.

As the weather warms up, open-air markets chock-full of fresh produce are popping up around our city. It is officially farmers market season. Swap your weekly grocery store shopping routines with a trip to the market to support local vendors and farmers with the help of Catholic Charities.

Unfortunately, farmers markets have not always been accessible for everyone. Catholic Charities’ Food For All program was designed to create a more fair and equitable food system within our community. Through our Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program, low-income seniors have the opportunity to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables from local markets.

Since 2014, Food For All has provided vouchers for seniors in Spokane to buy fresh produce from farmers markets. Eligible seniors can apply for $40 in checks to spend on fresh fruits and vegetables at authorized farmers markets in Spokane county from now until October 31.

To be eligible for the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program:

• You must be 60 years old or older (or 55+ if you are Native American /Alaska Native)

• Your income must be below 185% of Federal Poverty Level. That means:

• $23,606 Annual or $1,967 Monthly Income for 1 person

• $31,894 Annual or $2,658 Monthly Income for 2 people

• For larger households, add $691 month for each additional person

• You must be a resident of Washington State

You can apply to the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program today!

Entries are being accepted on a first come first serve basis until all spots are filled in Spokane County. Applications and more information can be found on this website: https://www.altcew.org/senior-farmers-market-nutrition-program/

These vouchers can be used at any of Spokane’s certified farmers markets. Click here to see some of our favorite spots that are OPEN for the 2020 summer season!