Senior Farmer's Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP)

What is the purpose of this service?

Senior Farmer's Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) is a food and education assistance program for Seniors. It helps Seniors eat well and stay healthy.

Who can receive these services?

  • Seniors who are at least 60 years old and need better nutrition
  • Low income requirements apply

What services are offered?

SFMNP can provide:

  • Special checks to buy fresh, nutritious fruits, vegetables, and herbs from authorized farmers' markets
  • Information about nutrition and health to help you and eat well and be healthy

Upcoming Changes to the Illinois WIC FMNP and SFMNP Programs

  • Banks around the country are increasing the price of contracts for paper banking and no longer accepting paper banking processes for their contracts.
  • This transition will allow Illinois S/FMNP participants and farmers to pay for produce conveniently and securely as well as for farmers to receive payment in a matter of days and will prevent farmers from accepting checks that are not currently contracted with DHS and the associated fees with depositing checks past the program deadline to receive payment.
  • United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Supports Illinois WIC and Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Programs to Transition to an Electronic Solution.

How to apply?

Services are provided in 37 counties throughout the state.

Contact your local area on aging. Information is available through the Illinois Department on Aging's website.

In Chicago, the Greater Chicago Food Depository will be distributing the Senior Farmer Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) vouchers/checks.

More Info and Resources