The City of Alexandria is accepting applications for Virginia’s Farm Market Fresh program, which provides eligible older adults with $50 benefit cards to purchase fresh produce from local farmers.
The Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program offers one benefit card per qualifying resident aged 60 or older. Cards can be exchanged for fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables and herbs at approved farmers’ markets and roadside stands throughout the region.
To qualify, applicants must be Alexandria residents aged 60 or older with a monthly income below $2,413 for individuals or $3,261 for couples. The program aims to help older adults access fresh produce while supporting local agricultural businesses.
Applications must be received by Sept. 30 and will not be available on-site at farmers’ markets. Residents can apply online, in person at the Division of Aging and Adult Services at 4850 Mark Center Drive, 9th Floor, between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., or by printing and mailing an application to the same office.
Benefit cards must be redeemed by Nov. 30 at participating locations. These include a seasonal pop-up farmers’ market on Sept. 16 at 300 Wythe Street from 9 a.m. to noon, as well as participating farmers at McCutcheon-Mount Vernon, Annandale, Kingstowne Market and West End Market.
Residents should look for vendors displaying Farm Market Fresh signs to identify approved locations where benefit cards can be used.
The program serves Alexandria’s older adult population while providing economic support to local farmers and markets. Fresh produce options through the program include seasonal fruits, vegetables and fresh-cut herbs grown by regional agricultural producers.
What are the qualifications:
- City of Alexandria resident
- 60 years of age or older
- Monthly income less than $2,413 for one person or $3,261 for two people
- Enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables
How do eligible older adults apply: (Applications will not be available on-site at the markets.)
- Application must be received by September 30
- Online application
- In-person at Alexandria’s Division of Aging and Adult Services located at 4850 Mark Center Drive, 9th Floor, from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- Print and mail an application to the Division of Aging and Adult Services
Where to use the benefit card:
- Benefit card may be redeemed until November 30
- Seasonal pop up farmers market on September 16, 300 Wythe Street from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
- Participating farmers at McCutcheon-Mount Vernon, Annandale, Kingstowne Market and West End Market. Look for farmers with the Farm Market Fresh sign to know they are an approved vendor.
For more information about the Farm Market Fresh program or to access applications, contact Alexandria’s Division of Aging and Adult Services at 703-746-5999.
