CONTACT: Julie Willmot
(609) 278-7137

TRENTON, N.J.—Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes announced today senior citizens in Mercer County will again have the opportunity to receive fresh produce vouchers that will enable them to purchase locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables at participating farm stands.

Representatives from the Mercer County Nutrition Office will offer the vouchers on Wednesday, August 12, 2009 between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Trenton Farmers Market, 960 Spruce Street, Lawrence. Eligible senior citizens will receive coupons to redeem $30 in fresh produce at various vendor sites throughout the county. Vouchers will be in $5 denominations and can are valid until Nov. 30, 2009.

“This is an important opportunity for seniors in Mercer County, especially in these lean times as it becomes more of a challenge to stretch your dollar,” said the County Executive.

Hughes explained that The Farmers’ Market program was developed to provide low-income seniors with vouchers they can use to purchase fresh produce grown by New Jersey farmers. The Mercer County Nutrition Project is the lead agency and coordinator in Mercer County for the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program, and has been for a number of years. Effective July 1, 2009 the figures are as follows: single person income must be below $20,036; a couple’s income must be below $26,599 per year. Documentation is required for certification and the income criteria must be met to be eligible to receive the vouchers.

The Mercer County Nutrition Project reminds seniors of these guidelines:

  • You must be 60 years old to receive checks under this program.
  • You must provide proof of income or self-declare your gross income to meet the income guidelines.
  • You may not pick up checks for anyone other than yourself.
  • Checks are to be signed in front of the farmers. Do not send signed checks to the market with a friend. The farmer has the right to refuse to honor them.
  • Checks may be used only at certified farm stands - not grocery stores. Stands will display a yellow poster indicating that they accept these checks.
  • Only one set of checks per person will be awarded each year.
  • Husbands and wives can each receive their own set of checks.

For additional information, contact the Mercer County Nutrition Project for the Elderly at (609) 989-6650.