Services

Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program

(This page is under construction - please continue to check back)

About the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program

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. Some restrictions apply—click for full item list.

We offer the program to eligible applicants who are 60 or older and residents of:

Crawford
Huron
Knox
Richland
Seneca

SFMNP 2024 season will use an e-solution called “Homegrown Benefits” to redeem the vouchers in collaboration with the Ohio Department of Aging.

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 at the Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging, Inc. website (https://www.aaa5ohio.org/services/sfmnp/).

Homegrown Benefits for eFMNP will be an app that eligible participants will be required to use to redeem benefits. You will be able to use this at your local farmers' markets - no more paper!

Please follow the steps below to become a Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program participant.

Apply for the SFMNP

Step 1: SFMNP Application

All past participants and new applicants must apply through the application link.

The electronic application is the most efficient way to apply and get approved for the SFMNP.
All interested individuals and past SMFNP participants MUST complete the application. An email address is required to fill out the electronic application.
If you do not have an email, you can visit the Area Agency on Aging at 2131 Park Avenue West in Ontario and complete a paper application or call 419-524-4144.
If you complete the online application, the Ohio Department of Aging will email you to notify you if you have been approved for the program. The email will come from support@homegrownbenefits.com the email will include a link for registration (Step 2: Registration).
If you complete the application on paper, you will be notified by mail about approval. Please understand this process will take a little longer.

Online Application Here

Step 2: Registration

When you are approved, you will receive an email confirming your approval. The email will include a link to activate your account.
You must register your account. Follow the step-by-step guide on how to register your account. Step-by-Step: How to Register.
Once you have registered, you must download the "Homegrown Benefits for eFMNP" app from your phone app store (supported by Android and Apple phones). Step-by-Step Guide: Download App.
- image of the app icon
The Homegrown Benefits for the eFMNP app will be used to check your voucher balance and will be used to redeem vouchers for produce. Step-by-Step Guide: Learn how to use the App.
A dedicated support line from Homegrown Support will be available to help participants directly. Please call ----- for support.

Please continue to visit this page for ongoing updates on the program.

Contact:

For general program information, please give us a call.

Call: (567) 247-7101

Nondiscrimination Statement