Pike County is considered a food desert, and with rising costs for both grocery buyers and farmers, the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program has become a huge help to low-income seniors and local growers. The program allows eligible seniors to purchase farm-fresh produce, fresh-cut herbs, and honey, helping them eat healthier while also offsetting high grocery store prices.

The Pike County Extension Office previously issued senior vouchers at the farmers market. However, to better accommodate seniors and avoid long wait times in hot weather, Extension staff decided to issue vouchers at the office by appointment. This team effort included setting up an appointment system, assisting seniors, and making the process more seamless and comfortable. Seniors have expressed that they prefer this method. In addition to voucher distribution, the ANR staff also coordinated with the Pikeville Farmers Market and the Community Farm Alliance (CFA) to distribute Kentucky Double Dollars, allowing seniors and WIC recipients to access even more fresh, local produce.

Of the $5,000 in vouchers issued, $4,680.46 was redeemed, which is a 93.61% redemption rate for the 2023 season. Pike county ranked 6th in the state out of all counties listed based on the percent utilized/redemption rate of the senior vouchers. The 93.61% redemption rate shows that the program was highly effective. This success can be credited to our Extension staff assistant making personal phone call reminders, as well as encouragement from ANR staff and Pikeville Farmers Market vendors to ensure seniors benefited fully from their funding. 

The change in distribution location and improved system allowed more seniors to use their vouchers without the stress of waiting in long lines or dealing with extreme heat. Feedback from recipients has been positive, with many noting how much easier the process was this year. The Kentucky Double Dollars program further increased access to healthy food and provided additional support for local farmers, making a meaningful impact on both the community’s health and local agriculture.