04/22/2026
UPDATE ON 2026 SENIOR FARMERS MARKET NUTRITION PROGRAM
The 2026 Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) application process is different than previous years. Please review the below information carefully:
• Interested and eligible participants may apply from April 22, 2026 until May 22, 2026.
o Individuals may no longer apply after this date.
o Individuals must reapply annually, even if you have participated in previous years.
• All applications must be completed online at https://portal.homegrownbenefits.com/apply/ohio. No paper applications are available.
• Individuals using an existing SFMNP Homegrown Benefits debit card or the mobile app will see their funds loaded onto their Homegrown debit card or mobile app by May 15, 2026.
o Those who do not already have a Homegrown Benefits debit card, need a replacement card, or who are new to using the app, will receive their benefits in the future.
• Funds are limited for 2026, so it is recommended that those interested in applying do as soon as possible.
As in the past, those who receive a $50 SFMNP benefit will have until November 30, 2026 to purchase locally grown, fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and honey at community markets and roadside stands. For information on where SFMNP benefits can be spent, visit https://ohiofarmersmarketnetwork.org/senior-farmers-market-nutrition-program/.
HOW TO APPLY
The 2026 application is located at https://portal.homegrownbenefits.com/apply/ohio.
• If you participated in 2025 and still have your Homegrown Benefits debit card or mobile app, you still must complete the 2026 SFMNP application.
•
• If you participated in 2025 and no longer have your Homegrown Benefits debit card, you will receive a new one in the mail after you fill out the 2026 SFMNP application.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE
Ohioans aged 60+ and with a household income at or below 185% of the Federal Poverty Level:
• $0-$29,526 for a 1-person household
• $0-$40,034 for a 2-person household
• $0-$50,542 for a 3-person household
• $0-$61,050 for a 4-person household
WHAT IF I NEED HELP COMPLETING AN APPLICATION
• The SFMNP section of the Ohio Department on Aging website has quite a bit of information to help applicants: https://aging.ohio.gov/care-and-living/health-and-safety/health-and-safety-resources/senior-farmer-market. To get your questions answered quickly, we strongly recommend that you visit this website.
• You can call 614-437-2865 - this is a voicemail-only line, or you can email [email protected]. Calls and emails will be returned within four business days.
Thank you!
Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program Team