A program to support the health of older adults and to support area farmers is offered through the Blair Senior Services titled Farmers Market Nutrition Program.
The nutrition program which started on June 1 offers checks to income-eligible adults, ages 60 years or older, to use in exchange for fruits and vegetables at area farmers’ markets.
To be eligible for a check, individuals must be residents of Blair County and have had a total income for 2002 of $16,613 or less or for couples an income of $22,422 or less. A driver’s license or photo identification will be required at the time of pick up of the checks.
After signing up for the program, an individual will receive four checks in the amount of $5 each. The checks can be used anytime during the summer but must be used by November 30, 2003. During the time of purchase at a farmer’s market, no change will be given if the price falls under $5, so it is important to spend the entire amount of the check at the time of purchase.
The checks must be used for locally-grown fruits and vegetables at designated locations, which include: Altoona Farmer’s Market, Baronner’s Farm Market, Bridenbaugh Farm Market, B & G Produce, Friends Farm Market, Garden Fresh Produce, Hilltop Products, Hinish Farm Market, Hollidaysburg Farmers’ Market, Israel Swarey, Leidig’s Farm, Martin’s Garden Center, Mountain View Farm, Rispoli’s Produce Market, Roudabush Market & Bakery at the Farm, Stanley’s, Tyrone Farmer’s Market, Variety Produce and the Way Fruit Farm.
Checks are available for pick up at the downtown Altoona Blair Senior Service Center during the weekdays. They are also available for pick up from the Bellwood Senior Center on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and available at the Tyrone Senior Center on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
For more information on the Farmers Market Nutrition Program or other programs offered by Blair Senior Services, contact the Altoona Center at 946-1235, the Bellwood Center at 742-7332, or the Tyrone Center at 684-7853.
