RSVP offers farmers market coupons for seniors

This summer marks the 10th year the Retired Senior Volunteer Program will distribute free farmers market coupons for fresh produce to Carson City low-income seniors through the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program.

Coupons will be distributed from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 25 at the UNR Cooperative Extension Conference Room, at 2621 Northgate Lane, Suite 12.

Each coupon book contains 15 coupons at $2 each for a total of $30, which can be used at the Saturday Morning 3rd & Curry St. Farmers Markets, held from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturdays through Sept. 20 at the parking lot at Third and Curry streets.

Seniors age 60 and older whose income does not exceed $21,257 annually can qualify to receive coupons.

An eligible senior couple whose combined income does not exceed $28,694 annually can receive one book per person. Both people need to be present to receive the coupon books. Disabled persons younger than 60 are not eligible for the program.

Applications for coupons will not be handed out prior to the distribution. Seniors must prove Carson City residency and present a Nevada ID or a Nevada driver’s license and must sign the self-certification form at the distribution site.

The Senior Farmers market Nutrition Program is a cooperative effort provided by RSVP, the USDA, the Nevada State Commodity Food Distribution Program, the Nevada Department of Agriculture, the Nevada Certified Farmers Market Association and the State of Nevada Division for Aging Services, whose combined purpose is to increase the consumption, production and distribution of locally grown fruits and vegetables that bring about better health through improved nutrition.

Coupon sets that remain after distribution will be available for pick-up at RSVP’s office. For more information about this program, or to find out about RSVP services for seniors, call 775-687-4680, ext 0.