Evaluation of the South Carolina seniors farmers' market nutrition education program.

The Seniors Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) provides vouchers to low-income seniors for use at local farmers' markets. This study was conducted to determine if SFMNP participants increased fruit and vegetable consumption. A total of 15,000 people from 13 counties received vouchers. A random sample of 1,500 received a follow-up survey, of which 658 (44%) were returned. Of the 98% of respondents who used the vouchers, 531 respondents (83%) did not purchase foods that they had never tried before, but 89% reported the intention to eat more fruits and vegetables year round because of the program. Farmers reported benefits from the program, have a positive attitude about it, and are willing to make certain accommodations to participate in it again. The SFMNP is an effective method for increasing consumption of agricultural commodities from farmers' markets by low-income seniors and is worthy of continued funding.