How to apply for Georgia Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP)

Who it's for

The Georgia Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program gives low-income seniors benefits to buy fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables, and herbs at approved Georgia farmers' markets during the market season (about May through mid-October). To qualify you must be a Georgia resident, be 60 years of age or older, and have a household income at or below 185% of the federal poverty guidelines. Eligible seniors receive a benefit allotment once per season, on a first-come, first-served basis, distributed through participating Area Agencies on Aging. Along with the benefits, participants get nutrition information and tips for selecting and preparing fresh produce.

What you'll need

• Proof of age 60+ (Georgia ID or driver's license)
• Proof of Georgia residency
• Self-declaration of household income

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Georgia Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need proof of age 60+ (Georgia ID or driver's license), proof of Georgia residency, self-declaration of household income — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Confirm you meet the basic eligibility requirements: you must be a Georgia resident, age 60 or older, and have a household income at or below 185% of the federal poverty guidelines. Note that some seniors ages 55–59 who are disabled and live in qualifying senior congregate-nutrition housing may also be eligible.
2. Gather your required documents: a Georgia ID or driver's license showing you are age 60 or older, proof of Georgia residency, and a self-declaration of your household income.
3. Apply as early in the market season as possible — benefits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis until the season's allotment runs out. Apply online or by calling the program at 866-552-4464.
4. Ask the agency representative which participating Area Agency on Aging serves your area and how you will receive your benefit allotment once approved.

What to expect: After applying, your information will be reviewed by the program through the Area Agencies on Aging. If approved and benefits are still available, you will receive a one-time benefit allotment for the current market season (roughly May through mid-October) to use at approved Georgia farmers' markets for fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables, and herbs. You will also receive nutrition information and tips for selecting and preparing fresh produce. Processing times vary, so ask the agency for an estimate when you apply. Because benefits are limited and distributed first-come, first-served, applying early each season is strongly encouraged. You must reapply every year to receive benefits for the next market season.

Renewals

annual (each market season)