Food Resources

I just found out about another program to help low income senior citizens experiencing food insecurity. It's called the Senior Farmer's Market Nutrition Program. It's run through the USDA and is in addition to SNAP-allowed "Double Up Food Bucks" program. It provides a one time annual grant in voucher form of $50 to use at authorized farmer's markets, CSAs, roadside stands, and even a few grocery stores.

Now, fifty dollars isn't life changing, but it's assistance I'm not going to turn down. If you live in a state that participates with the Double Up Food Bucks program, this is going to mean $100. I'm a lifelong vegetarian, and just can't afford to buy any fruit except apples and bananas these days, so I'm looking forward to having a bit more variety in my diet.

Requirements: Age 60+, and you must be at or below 185% of the FPL (below $29,500 for a single person). If you are already enrolled in SNAP, you are probably eligible at least with the financial requirement. There are some complicated carve-outs for those who are disabled. The program runs seasonally between May and November.

 Note: Double Up Food Bucks does not operate in all states. Contact your representatives and ask/demand that they participate!

 

Revisiting the blog!

I let this blog go for a long time, but I'm feeling the need to speak again...

I'm now 'involuntarily retired' and actually living under the poverty line, which in 2026 is $15,960. This is fixed income (Social Security and a very small pension). 

On a temporary basis, I can scrape by, but like everyone, expenses are increasing almost on a daily basis. In a couple of years, homeowners insurance, which is the largest part of the monthly bill will increase to the point where I can't afford my home. Nope, it's not paid off, and that won't happen for another 19 years. I probably won't live to see that.

SNAP, LiHeap, various low income programs for internet and phone, foodbanks and Medicaid are my lifelines. These all require a lot of documentation on a semi-annual basis, because you know, the poors are such thieves that they have to watch us like hawks.

I'll check in more regularly from now on. Thanks to anyone reading!