Low-income seniors, WIC participants can qualify for Missouri Farmers Market program

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - The Missouri Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) and the WIC Farmers Market Nutrition Program (WICFMNP) were launched by the Missouri Department of Agriculture for the 2025 season.

These programs are funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service, and they assist low-income residents in buying fresh Missouri produce.

Low-income seniors in Kansas City, Missouri, can apply for the benefits. The benefits allow them to purchase eligible food from authorized farmers at Missouri farmers markets or roadside stands. Low-income seniors in St. Louis, Springfield and Mid-Missouri regions are also eligible to apply.

Up to $50 in benefits may be distributed to qualifying households in Missouri. The Missouri Department of Agriculture worked with the Missouri Department of Social Services to figure out which regions have the highest number of citizens who may qualify.

Seniors can use a proxy to apply for the benefits and purchase eligible foods at markets; each senior can assign one proxy on their behalf. Both must sign the program application to receive the benefits.

Seniors in the Kansas City area can apply at the University of Missouri Extension, which is (573)884-5576.

WIC participants in KC can also apply to receive benefits for up to $30 per recipient. Participants can request Farmers Market Nutrition Program benefits from the same place they receive their WIC benefits.

More than 250 farmers are trained and authorized by Missouri Grown to participate in the program. Farmers partaking in the program have identifying signs at their booths. Benefits are available through Sept. 30 and must be redeemed by Oct. 31.