BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. — Low-income seniors in Berkeley County will soon have the opportunity to receive free vouchers to buy fresh fruits and vegetables through South Carolina’s annual Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program.
The program, administered by the South Carolina Department of Social Services, officially begins June 1 and provides eligible seniors with $50 in benefits to spend at approved farmers markets, roadside stands and mobile produce vendors across the state.
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In Berkeley County, distribution events are scheduled throughout late June at senior centers and community sites in St. Stephen, Goose Creek, Moncks Corner and Huger, according to the 2026 county distribution schedule.
Where Berkeley County seniors can apply
Eligible seniors can apply and receive benefits the same day at the following Berkeley County locations:
St. Stephen Senior Center
- 1266 Russellville Road, St. Stephen
- Distribution dates: June 22-23
- Hours: 9 a.m. to noon
Goose Creek Senior Center
- 103 Thurgoood Road, Goose Creek
- Distribution date: June 24
- Hours: 9 a.m. to noon
Moncks Corner Senior Center
- 103 Gulledge St., Moncks Corner
- Distribution dates: June 25-26
- Hours: 9 a.m. to noon
New Hope United Methodist Church
- 152 Hewardridge Lane, Huger
- Distribution date: June 30
- Hours: 9 a.m. to noon
Program coordinator Tiffany Schurlknight can be reached at (803) 531-4663 for Berkeley County-specific questions. You can also send an email to [email protected] if you have additional questions.
Who qualifies for the program?
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be at least 60 years old
- Be a South Carolina resident
- Have an annual income of $28,953 or less for an individual or $39,128 or less for a two-person household
- Provide a valid photo ID
- Report household size
Benefits are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis in the applicant’s county of residence.
Approved participants will receive five $10 paper checks that can be used to purchase fresh, unprocessed fruits and vegetables from authorized vendors.
Supporting seniors and local farmers
State officials say the program not only helps seniors access healthier foods but also supports South Carolina farmers during the peak growing season.
The federally funded program operates in all 46 South Carolina counties this year, with support from local nonprofits, senior organizations and community partners.
SCDSS is also continuing its partnership with Coastal Carolina National Bank to help process payments for participating farmers and vendors.
Ways seniors can stretch their farmers’ market dollars
Seniors planning to use their vouchers at local markets may also benefit from tools and products that make shopping and produce storage easier during the summer months.
Popular items often used at farmers’ markets include:
- Lightweight rolling grocery carts
- Reusable insulated shopping bags
- Portable produce wash containers
- Fresh vegetable storage containers for refrigerators
Online shoppers can also browse seasonal produce-saving products through retailers like Amazon Fresh Market Essentials or explore healthy eating resources from AARP Healthy Living.
More information about the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program is available through the South Carolina Department of Social Services.
Stretching farmers’ market benefits even further
For many seniors and families, the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program can help offset grocery costs during the summer months — especially as food prices remain high. In addition to using the $50 produce vouchers at local farmers markets, many households are also turning to meal delivery services and discount grocery memberships to save money and reduce trips to the store.
Several food and grocery companies are currently offering promotions that pair well with healthy eating goals and fresh produce purchases:
- Blue Apron is offering a Memorial Day promotion with 35% off orders using code: MDW35, giving customers access to chef-designed meal kits that can easily incorporate fresh local vegetables.
- Thrive Market offers discounted organic groceries, pantry staples and healthy snacks delivered directly to homes — a popular option for seniors and caregivers looking to avoid frequent grocery store trips.
- Home Chef provides simple, easy-to-prepare meal kits with customizable recipes that can complement seasonal produce purchased at local farmers markets.
- Misfits Market specializes in affordable produce and grocery delivery, including surplus and “imperfect” fruits and vegetables that help reduce food waste while lowering costs.
- Hungryroot is currently promoting 30% off orders of $99 or more, plus a free gift for life, combining groceries and personalized meal planning for customers seeking convenient healthy eating options.
Consumer advocates recommend seniors compare delivery fees, subscription requirements and food options before signing up for any service. Many also allow family members to help manage deliveries and meal selections online.
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