By Blake Jackson
The 2025 Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program is returning to Schuylkill County, providing eligible older adults with vouchers to purchase fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables. Administered by Diakon Community Services and funded by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, this program helps seniors eat healthy while supporting local farmers.
Starting June 10, 2025, residents of Schuylkill County aged 60 or older by December 31, 2025, can pick up vouchers at various distribution sites. To qualify, individuals must meet income limits: $28,953 or less for a single-person household and $39,128 or less for a two-person household.
No formal application is needed for in-person pickup. However, if a senior cannot attend, someone else can collect vouchers on their behalf using a proxy form, which is available at www.diakon.org/community-services. A person may serve as a proxy for up to four eligible seniors.
Each eligible senior may receive only one set of vouchers for the year. Residents of nursing homes or facilities that provide daily meals are not eligible for this program.
Distribution takes place Tuesdays and Thursdays from June 10 to July 10 at centers in Mahanoy City, Pottsville, Schuylkill Haven, and Tremont, between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Additional pop-up locations and times are scheduled through late July, including special evening and weekend hours to accommodate more seniors.
This initiative encourages healthy eating, supports regional agriculture, and strengthens community ties. It is part of a broader effort by the Pennsylvania Department of Aging to improve food access for older adults.
For details, contact Diakon Community Services at (570) 624-3016 or email HerbD@diakon.org.
This valuable program helps ensure seniors can enjoy nutritious, local food throughout the growing season.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-valentinrussanov
Categories: Pennsylvania, Business