Published: May 29, 2009 10:40 pm      

Program provides seniors with fresh fruits, vegetables

Garrett agency distributing coupons to those eligible

OAKLAND — Summer sunshine is on its way and with it come fresh fruits and vegetables grown by local farmers at Fresh Air Farmers Markets.

To assist senior citizens who have limited income, the Area Agency on Aging works with the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program to provide coupons to eligible older citizens during June.

Each qualified participant can receive $30 worth of coupons to be redeemed at designated farmers markets in Maryland.

Applicants must be at least 60 years old, a resident of Garrett County and participate in at least one of the following programs:

• Qualified Medicare Beneficiary Program

• Special Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary Program

• Primary Adult Care Program

• Supplemental Security Income

• Extra Help with Medicare D Prescription Drug Program

• Medicaid

• Senior Employment Program

• Food Supplement Program or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program

• Maryland Energy Assistance Program

• Electrical Universal Service Program

A limited number of coupons are available, so they will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Distribution will begin Tuesday at the Swanton Community Center, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. and will continue Wednesday at the Grantsville Senior Center, 10 to 11:30 a.m., and June 8 at Mary Browning Senior Center, 1:30 to 3 p.m.

Proof of age, residency and program participation must be provided at time of coupon distribution.

A proxy may do this, however, forms must be obtained and completed in advance of the distribution date.

For more information, call (301) 334-9431, ext. 137.