Farmers market coupon distribution drive-thru heads to Niagara Falls

The Niagara County Office for the Aging will distribute farmers market coupon booklets 10 a.m. until noon Thursday, Aug. 6 (or a rain date of Friday, Aug. 7), at John Duke Senior Center, 1201 Hyde Park Blvd., Niagara Falls.

The senior farmers market nutrition program, headed by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, provides coupons to all who meet age and income requirements. Each booklet contains five coupons worth $4 each ($20 total), which can be used to buy fresh locally grown fruits and vegetables at participating farmers markets throughout New York.

The drive-thru procedure is as follows:

√ Remain in vehicle at all times. OFA staff will distribute the necessary eligibility paperwork and coupons via the vehicle’s window.

√ All people will be wearing a mask.

√ Each person in the household is eligible to receive a booklet if they meet the age and income requirements.

√ The eligible person must sign in person. A power of attorney with proper paperwork can sign for the coupons.

•Eligibility Criteria:

One must be 60 years of age or older (sorry, no exceptions) and have monthly income no more than:

• $1,967 for a one-person household,
• $2,658 for a two-person household
• $3,349 for a three-person household

Or:

• One must be 60 years of age or older, no exceptions,

And:

Be entitled to, or receive Social Security income, public assistance, SNAP or Section 8 Housing subsidy

In addition, one must certify they have not received Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program coupons from any other location this year.

Being a food stamp or HEAP recipient no longer automatically qualifies one to receive the coupons.

A list of farmers markets is provided for one’s convenience. Vouchers must be used by Nov. 30. Lost or stolen coupons cannot be replaced.

The farmers market coupons are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, call the Office for the Aging/NY Connects at 716-438-3030 or contact Christian at 716-438-4023.