The Seniors Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) helps provide low-income seniors with access to locally grown fruits, vegetables, honey, and herbs.
Eligible participants receive a $50 voucher to use at participating farmers’ markets and roadside stands. The voucher can be redeemed for Ohio-grown fresh vegetables, fruits, herbs, and honey.
To be eligible for this program in Lake County, you must be a Lake County resident, age 60 or over with an income (from all sources) of less than $27,861 for a household of one and $37,814 for a household of two (185% of the federal poverty level).
SFMNP 2024 season will use an e-solution called “Homegrown Benefits” to redeem the vouchers in collaboration with the Ohio Department of Aging.
What is Homegrown Benefits for eFMNP?
To improve efficiencies, reach more older adults, expand the service area, and sustain the program into the future, the Ohio Department on Aging (ODA) is transitioning the SFMNP to an “e-solution.” They will shift from printed materials to a fully electronic system called Homegrown Benefits.
Participation for 2024 will require individuals to complete their application online through the Ohio Department of Aging (ß hyperlink will direct you to additional program information and the online application).
On the application, eligible seniors or their proxy will choose one of two options to obtain their SFMNP benefits for this year:
- Mobile Benefits: Homegrown Benefits for eFMNP will be an app that eligible participants will be required to use to redeem benefits. A smartphone and email are required for this option. After application is submitted, you will receive an email from the ODA within 1-2 weeks with instructions regarding the Homegrown Benefits app and registration.
- Physical Benefit Card: this physical benefit card will hold your SFMNP benefits on it and will be required to redeem benefits at local farmers’ markets when shopping. A smartphone and email are NOT required for this option. Please note receiving the SFMNP benefit this way will take a little longer due to mailing.
For general information or application assistance, please contact the Lake County Council on Aging at (440) 205-8111.