As summer returns to the Southcoast, so do the farmers’ markets. Farms from all across Massachusetts have begun to set up their tents, tables, and baskets of vegetables and fruits so residents can enjoy fresh and healthy local fruits, vegetables, jams, and relishes.
While local farmers have helped increase and simplify people’s access to locally grown produce, and while many of us have looked forward to these farmers’ markets all winter, there are still a lot of people who have limited access to fresh fruits and vegetables because they either cannot afford it or they lack transportation to farmers’ markets. At Coastline we confront this problem every day.
In working towards a solution, we recently applied for, and were awarded, two grants from the Department of Agricultural Resources totaling $48,750. Both grants will be used to help make fresh produe available to our low-income and homebound seniors.
We were awarded $40,000 for our Farmers’ Market Coupon Program. Councils on Aging, Housing Authorities, and other community organizations have been given over 1,000 vouchers to distribute to qualifying seniors. (To qualify, seniors must meet certain income guidelines.) Each voucher is worth $25.00 and can be used at any participating farmers’ market.
We were also awarded $8,750 for our Farmers’ Market Homebound Program, which allows our Meals on Wheels drivers to deliver fresh fruits and vegetables to qualifying homebound seniors twice over the summer months.
These two programs give seniors access to healthy food while helping support the local farm economy. These projects are also the latest in our efforts to help seniors adopt healthier lifestyles and habits so they can continue living independently. Coastline also puts on classes, workshops, and programs to educate seniors about wellness topics like Bone Health, Dietary Guidelines, Artificial Sweeteners, and Healthy Cooking.
To learn more about local farmers and farmers’ markets, check out Southeastern Massachusetts Agricultural Partnership’s website. On their homepage, click on the “On-Line Farm Guide” button to find farms near you.
Click here to learn more about our Elderly Nutrition Program. You can find a calendar of upcoming classes and workshops on our website, as well.
