A Tasty Program for Kupuna

Free Produce for Molokai’s Seniors.

A new program from Maui Economic Opportunity (MEO) provides Molokai seniors with some healthy assistance.

Seniors 60 or older who qualify under federal income guidelines are eligible for $50 coupons good toward the purchase of fresh, locally grown produce at certified Maui County farmers markets.

Beginning May 22, coupons will be available at the MEO Molokai Branch office, for use between June 1 and Sept. 30.

The program provides fresh, nutritious, and locally grown products to eligible seniors, while serving as an economic stimulus by increasing consumption of freshly grown local produce, MEO Executive Director Sandy Baz said.

MEO is coordinating the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program, funded with a $274,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Applicants must have an annual income of $22,126 or less, must provide proof of residency and income qualifications and have photo identification.

The state Office of Community Services sets the guidelines for types of produce that can be purchased with the coupons while MEO certifies the farmers markets and stands to accept the coupons. Markets and stands that have been certified are provided signs noting certification.

For information, call the MEO Molokai Branch Office at 553-3216. Growers wishing to have their markets certified should call Zessica Apiki at MEO.