Federal budget cuts have led to a reduction in the number of Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) vouchers available in Bucks County. According to the Bucks County release, Bucks County Area Agency on Aging (BCAAA), the agency will receive 11,325 vouchers this year, down from the 15,000 initially requested.
As a result, 2,265 eligible seniors will receive vouchers, while 735 will not. Each voucher's dollar amount has also been reduced. The BCAAA stated they have no control over these funding changes.
Bob Harvie, Chair of the Bucks County Board of Commissioners, noted the impact of federal budget decisions on local programs. Diane Ellis-Marseglia, Vice-Chair, also expressed concern over the reduced availability of support for seniors.
The BCAAA announced that updates about voucher availability will be posted on their website and Facebook page once supplies are exhausted at senior centers. The agency is asking the public to be patient with senior centers during this period of limited distribution.
