A federal program designed to provide healthy foods to senior citizens is now accepting applications.

The Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program, or SFMNP, is administered by the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries Farmers Market Authority Section. The program provides a $50 benefit card – an increase of $20 over previous years – to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables from certified sellers at farmers markets and farm stands in the state.

“The SFMNP card monetary increase from $30 to $50 will allow senior citizens to purchase more local products. I want to encourage those who are eligible to apply and begin shopping local,” said Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate.

To be eligible, the applicant must be 60 years of age or older with qualifying income of $2,096 monthly for a household of one or $2,823 monthly for a household of two. You can go here to see income levels for larger households.

This year’s benefit card replaces the paper vouchers issued in the past. Seniors are encouraged to keep this card in a safe place once it is received as benefits will be loaded onto it each year. Benefits are available on a first come, first serve basis.

Applications are accepted online here. Applications are not accepted via phone or mail and past recipients must apply again. Benefits can be redeemed at a variety of locations. You can go here to see a county-by-county list.