Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging, Inc., in collaboration with the Ohio Department of Aging, has announced the return of the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program for eligible older adults in nine Ohio counties. This announcement was made via a press release on April 17, 2025.
According to the agency, the Ohio Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP), supported by the Ohio Department of Aging, provides eligible adults aged 60 and over with a $50 benefit to purchase locally grown fruits, vegetables, herbs, and raw honey at participating farmers markets and stands. Applicants must reapply annually through an online process that requires an email address. Benefits can be accessed via a mobile app, QR code, or physical benefit card.
Eligibility for the 2025 program is determined by age, residence in one of the 80 participating Ohio counties, and household income within 185% of the federal poverty level. The Area Agency on Aging, District 5 offers application support for residents of Ashland, Crawford, Huron, Knox, Marion, Morrow, Richland, Seneca, and Wyandot counties. Approved applicants can expect to access benefits starting May 15.
Benefits are redeemable at approved vendor locations with payment processed through either the Homegrown Benefits mobile app or a QR code. Users log into the app to select "Pay Vendor" and have their QR code scanned by market vendors who complete the transaction. More market locations may be added throughout the season.
The Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging is a nonprofit organization serving Ashland, Crawford, Huron, Knox, Marion, Morrow, Richland, Seneca, and Wyandot Counties. For over five decades it has assisted older adults and individuals with disabilities in living independently and safely at home. The agency provides in-home services as well as transportation and nutrition programs while supporting chronic conditions management and caregivers including grandparents raising grandchildren. It also advocates for older adults while partnering with local organizations to deliver essential services. As said on its website: "the agency’s mission is to enhance independence dignity and quality of life for those it serves."
