Farmers Market Nutrition Programs
Forecasted
Farmers Market Nutrition Programs support seniors and WIC recipients with food benefit cards to buy locally grown produce from Louisiana farmers, connecting food assistance with local agriculture.
Funder: Louisiana Department of Agriculture & Forestry
Due Dates (Anticipated): May 2027 (Senior program application deadline)
Funding Amounts: $30 in food benefits per eligible senior or WIC participant (2026 program)
Summary: Food benefit cards help low-income seniors and WIC recipients purchase locally grown produce from certified farmers in Louisiana.
Key Information: Participants must apply every year; previous recipients do not automatically receive benefits.
Description
The Louisiana Department of Agriculture & Forestry (LDAF) administers two Farmers Market Nutrition Programs: the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program and the WIC Farmers Market Nutrition Program. Supported by U.S. Department of Agriculture grants for 2026, these programs provide food benefit cards for purchases of locally grown fresh fruits, vegetables, and cut herbs. Seniors may also purchase honey.
Benefits are used with certified farmers at approved farmers markets and roadside stands, connecting food assistance recipients with local agricultural producers. Farmers and market managers can apply for free certification to accept program payments, giving participating farms access to an additional revenue source. The programs provide food purchasing benefits rather than unrestricted funding.
