SPRING MEANS fresh fruits and vegetables. Now thanks to the Ocean County Office of Senior Services and the State of New Jersey, eligible older adults can enjoy garden-fresh produce at no cost, said Commissioner Robert S. Arace.

The Senior Farmer's Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) provides low-income seniors with $40 in vouchers to spend on locally grown fruits, vegetables, herbs and even honey.

"This is an outstanding program that allows our seniors to sample some of the nutritious and mouth-watering Jersey-fresh fruits and vegetables that soon will be harvested in Ocean County," Arace said.

Eligible seniors can spend their vouchers from May 1 to September 30 at any of the vendors who participate in the program.

"This initiative is part of Ocean County's ongoing commitment to senior health and nutrition," Arace said. "We want to ensure that no senior goes hungry, while also promoting healthier diets and supporting local agriculture."

In 2025, participating vendors can be found at farmer's markets in Lakehurst, Forked River, Barnegat, Beach Haven, Surf City, Brick, Seaside Park, Toms River, New Egypt, Bay Head and Tuckerton.

To be eligible for a voucher, seniors must meet the following state qualifications:
• Must be 60 years of age or older.
• A household of one must have an annual income of $28,953 or less.
• For each additional household member add $9,953 annual income.

Last year, Ocean County seniors purchased $83,850 worth of fresh produce using the free vouchers.

For more information or to apply for a voucher, contact the Ocean County Office of Senior Services at (732) 929-2091.

Each voucher will also include a list of all participating vendors and farmer's market locations.