Department for the Aging311Search all NYC.gov websites
Press Releases
NYC Department for the Aging Launches Annual Farmers Market Nutrition Program
This year, 70,000 coupon booklets are available for eligible older New Yorkers Program aims to increase access to nutritious food and promote healthy diets
New York, NY – The New York City Department for the Aging (NYC Aging) has launched the fourth annual Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) coupon distribution. Nearly 350 local organizations across the city are distributing coupon booklets, giving eligible older New Yorkers the opportunity to purchase nutritious fruits and vegetables at their local participating farmers market.
This year, 15,000 more coupon booklets are available than in 2024, bringing the total number available to 70,000. That increase represents an additional $400,000 in purchasing value for eligible older New Yorkers.
“Changing my diet changed the course of my life, and I am encouraged to see we are, once again, increasing the number of opportunities older New Yorkers have to eat nutritious foods,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “New Yorkers of all ages must have access to healthy and affordable foods, and I encourage older adults to take advantage of this opportunity. I look forward to seeing many of our older New Yorkers at farmers markets this summer as we continue to make New York City more affordable and a city where everyone can thrive.”
“The Farmers Market Nutrition Program offers older New Yorkers financial support to make healthier food choices and stay connected to their neighborhoods, while also supporting local businesses” said NYC Aging Commissioner Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez. “So many local organizations are taking part this year, but for older residents picking up their booklets at older adult centers, I encourage them to take advantage of their center’s service offerings. From fitness classes and art workshops to social events and day trips, these programs help New Yorkers stay active, independent, and engaged.”
Coupon booklets are being distributed at older adult centers and nonprofit organizations throughout the city. Each booklet is worth $25 and contains five coupons that can be used at participating farmers markets, farm stands, and mobile markets. Items that can be purchased include fruits, vegetables, mushrooms, and cut herbs.
More information about FMNP, including where to find a local distribution site and list of participating vendors, is available on NYC Aging’s website. Residents can also call Aging Connect at 212-AGING-NYC (212-244-6469) with questions.
To receive a coupon booklet, New York City residents must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 60 years of age
- Meet household income requirements:
- $2,413/month (for a one-person household);
- $3,261/month (for a two-person household);
- $4,109/month (for a three-person household).
Booklets are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis and must be used by Sunday, November 30, 2025. An individual with power of attorney or a proxy may use the coupons at a participating vendor.
###
About NYC Department for the Aging (NYC Aging):
The NYC Department for the Aging’s (NYC Aging) mission is to eliminate ageism and empower older adults to live independently in their communities. NYC Aging provides vital programs and resources to nearly 1.8 million older New Yorkers, fostering their physical and mental well-being.
About the Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP):
FMNP is a federally funded initiative by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, endeavors to promote improved nutrition through increased consumption of locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables, while simultaneously increasing the sales at farmers’ markets and fruit stands in New York. The program is sponsored by The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, New York State Department of Health, New York State Office for the Aging, and Cornell Cooperative Extension and USDA Food and Nutrition Service.