Deadline Approaching for Seniors to Use Farmers' Market Checks

Editor's Note: The following is a news release issued by the Mercer County administration.

Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes urges senior citizens in Mercer County to redeem their Farmers’ Market checks before Nov. 30, 2011.  The checks allow seniors the opportunity to receive fresh produce and enable them to purchase locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables at participating farm stands.

Eligible senior citizens received checks to redeem $20 in fresh produce at various vendor sites throughout the county.  Checks were distributed in four $5 denominations and are valid until Nov. 30.

“It is important that seniors take full advantage of this opportunity to redeem their checks. These are lean times and it becomes more of a challenge to stretch your dollar.  With the holidays upon us, it is a great way to add some seasonal specialties to your tables. Consider apples, pumpkins, squash and cabbage for your healthy holiday season menus.  ” said the county executive. 

Hughes explained that the Farmers’ Market program was developed to provide low-income seniors with checks they can use to purchase fresh produce grown by New Jersey farmers.  The Mercer County Nutrition Project is the lead agency and coordinator in Mercer County for the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program, and has been for a number of years. 

The Mercer County Nutrition Project reminds seniors of these guidelines:

• Checks are to be signed in front of the farmers.  Do not send signed checks to the market with a friend.  The farmer has the right to refuse to honor them.
• Checks may be used only at certified farm stands - not grocery stores.  Stands will display a yellow poster indicating that they accept these checks.

For additional information, contact the Mercer County Nutrition Project for the Elderly at (609) 989-6650.