With an overall food insecurity rate of 12.9% in LaRue County, the percentage of food insecurities is on the rise according to the latest Cooperative Extension Community Needs Assessment.  In addition, when asked to what extent practical education/assistance is in ensuring individuals and families have access to affordable nutritious food needed in LaRue County, survey participants rated this a 4.2 out of 5 which translates to a "very high need." 

Therefore, the LaRue County Cooperative Extension Service prioritized the LaRue County Farmers Market as a way to not only provide the community with local fresh fruits and vegetables but also to make them accessible to the county's elderly population through the Senior Farmer's Market Voucher Program.  With a large portion of the elderly population living on a fixed income purchasing fruits and vegetables is not a priority in their diet.  In cooperation with a federal grant and the work of the Kentucky Department of Agriculture the LaRue Extension Service was able to provide 150 vouchers to their community.

Since the implementation of the Senior Farmers Market vouchers there has been an increase in the growth of vendors rising to as high as 16 weekly participants. With the additional 150 vouchers valued at 50 dollars apiece that provides an additional $7000 of revenue.  At a redemption rate above 90% that has increased market vendors profitability.  With a larger variety of vendors, this gives our community more of a reason to come to the Farmers Market with the goal of increasing the affordability and accessibility of fruits and vegetables among LaRue County residents.