Increasing Food Security for Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities in Connecticut
Many Connecticut residents face food insecurity challenges and some estimates state that 380,000 people, or 1 in 10 residents, are affected. The Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) is one of many programs available in Connecticut to help residents increase their food security. Others include SNAP and WIC, along with community nutrition education through programs such as EFNEP.
Funds to Purchase Fresh Produce from Farmers for Eligible Participants
The Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) program provides access to locally grown vegetables, fruits, herbs, and honey while also supporting agricultural businesses in Connecticut.
SFMNP By The Numbers
31,000 seniors were reached
60% of seniors redeemed benefits
40% of WIC recipients redeemed benefits
Participant Eligibility and Distribution Locations Near You
SFMNP provides benefits to participants who are:
- 60 years of age or older OR
- Individuals with disabilities under the age of 60 living in housing facilities occupied primarily by older individuals where congregate nutrition services are provided.
Individuals must have a household income of not more than 185% of the annual poverty income guidelines. View distribution locations (where you will receive your benefits card) on the Department of Agriculture website.
What’s New with the Senior Farmer’s Market Nutrition Program
Instead of checks in previous years, participants now use a SoliSystem card for seniors and participants with disabilities to purchase eligible products from farmers. These cards are reusable from season to season and if you hold onto your card, you can hit the market earlier in the season to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables.
If seniors would like to have access to a map of farmers markets and stands where SFMNP benefits can be redeemed, please let your distribution site know and they will provide one. Please note: They need your personal email to issue you access to the mobile map app.
This year senior and individuals with disabilities will receive a balance of $50 on their card or mobile app to spend on fresh, unprocessed fruits, vegetables, cut herbs, eggs, and honey.
The funds are available yearly from June 1 until November 30. Please be sure to spend down all of the issued funds as they will not roll over to the following season.
Checking Your Card Balance
Participants can check their card balance at the soliportal. Provide your card number and PIN that was provided to you when you received the card.
Looking for More information?
Please visit the Connecticut Department of Agriculture’s website regarding Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program page if you have further questions about the program.
Using the SFMNP Card and App
Freezing Peppers and Onions
Introduction to Home Canning – Part One
Storing and Preparing Root Vegetables
Freezing Tomatoes for Later
Home Canning Part Two: How to Can
Almacenamiento y preparación de hortalizas de raíz
SoliSystem Assistance
Eligible SFMNP participants receive a SoliSystem card to purchase locally grown vegetables, fruits, herbs, and honey directly from a farmer, farm stand, or farmers market.
Seniors and individuals with disabilities: See if you meet income guidelines. If so, visit a participating distribution site to get started.
If you are in need of assistance with your SoliSystem card or app, have lost your card, or would like to know your card balance please contact the SoliSystems Helpline at (214) 256-3083.
About Connecticut Farmers Markets
Connecticut has nearly 100 farmers markets and can be found in virtually any town, seven days a week. The popularity of the markets mirrors the benefits - fresh, local products, friendly farmers that are the face behind the food you’re buying, and a community gathering place for everyone to enjoy.
This year senior and individuals with disabilities will receive a balance of $50 on their card or mobile app to spend on fresh, unprocessed fruits, vegetables, cut herbs, eggs, and honey.
Resources
Home Food Preservation with UConn Extension Fact Sheet
Sometimes you have more fresh produce than can be consumed, and that's when home food preservation can help. Food preservation allows you to safely store fruits and vegetables for eating later on, and this fact sheet offers tips and advice.
This work is supported by the 2022 ARPA Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program Grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Services.
