News
Senior Farmers Market Program participants: be sure to use benefits before markets close
July 22, 2026
Older adults across Council on Aging’s (COA) five-county region had another opportunity to enjoy fresh, locally grown foods in 2026 through the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP).
COA received limited funding from the Ohio Department of Aging to support eligible older adults in Butler, Clermont, Clinton, Hamilton and Warren counties. Approved participants received a $50 benefit that can be used at authorized farmers markets and roadside stands for fresh fruits, vegetables, fresh-cut herbs and raw honey.
Fresh food, healthy choices and community connection
The program helps older adults add more nutritious foods to their meals while also creating opportunities to connect with local growers. For farmers and market vendors, the program provides an additional funding source and a meaningful way to serve older adults who may not otherwise visit local markets or roadside stands.
To view a list of authorized vendors, click here.
Use benefit before local markets close
Recipients can use their 2026 benefit through Nov. 30, 2026, but many local markets close earlier in the season, often by September. Participants are encouraged not to delay in spending their $50 allotment. Unused benefits do not carry over to the next year.
Five-county impact
Across the region, more than 1,000 older adults were approved for the program, representing $51,350 in total funding for fresh, local foods.
| County | Total funding | Approved recipients |
| Butler | $14,050 | 281 |
| Clermont | $4,450 | 89 |
| Clinton | $1,900 | 38 |
| Hamilton | $26,050 | 521 |
| Warren | $4,900 | 98 |
Planning ahead for 2027
The application period for the 2026 program closed May 22, 2026. Older adults interested in applying for the 2027 program should check the Ohio Department of Aging and COA websites for announcements or call COA at (513) 721-1025 in April 2027. Recipients are required to reapply each year.
Helpful resources
For more information, visit COA’s Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program web page for program details, participating vendor information, nutrition education resources, the Ohio Department of Aging SFMNP web page and Homegrown Benefits support information.
For support, call the Homegrown Benefits support line at (614) 412-1729, Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., or Saturday-Sunday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.