Time to sign up for farmers market vouchers

The Franklin County Extension System is currently signing up eligible residents for the Farmers Market vouchers.

Residents can call the Extension office at 256-332-8880 between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. to sign up.

An application must be completed for each person in the household that qualifies for SFMNP benefits. Applicants must reapply every year.

“We want to make sure that the eligible residents of the county get their vouchers so they can purchase fresh vegetables and fruits from the farmers markets in Russellville and Red Bay,” Franklin County Extension Coordinator Katernia Cole said.

“This program also helps the local farmers who take out the time to plant and harvest the produce.”

To qualify, individuals must meet the following criteria:

• Age – person must be 60 years of age or older the day of issuance.

• Income level – to be eligible on the basis of income, recipients’ gross household income must not exceed the following limits:

$1,580.00 monthly for a household of 1

$2,133.00 monthly for a household of 2

$2,685.00 monthly for a household of 3

$3,238.00 monthly for a household of 4

$3,816.00 monthly for a household of 5

$4,344.00 monthly for a household of 6

In order to fill out the application, the Extension office will need the following information:

• First Name, Middle Initial, and Last Name

• Date of Birth

• Telephone Number

• Mailing Address

• Number of People Living in Home

• Total Monthly Income

Benefits will be mailed after May 15, 2014, from Montgomery.

Residents who do not have access to a computer or high-speed internet can call 256-332-8880 and the Franklin County Extension staff will be more than happy to sign the citizens of the county up for this program.