QUINCY, Ill. (WGEM) - Low-income seniors in Illinois can receive up to $40 in vouchers to spend on fresh produce at farmers markets and roadside stands this season through the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program.

The program is run by the Illinois Department on Aging and the Illinois Department of Human Services. More than 24,000 seniors across 37 Illinois counties are expected to receive booklets this season, which began July 10.

Amy Wiatr-Rodriguez, division manager of the Home and Community Services at the Illinois Department on Aging, said the program gives seniors access to food they may not otherwise be able to afford.

“It’s really a win-win for older adults who get access to fresh fruits and vegetables and herbs and honey items that are at the local farmers markets, but maybe they may not be able to afford them,” Wiatr-Rodriguez said. “This gives them a boost.”

Eligible seniors receive one booklet containing four $10 checks. The checks can be used together or separately and are valid through Oct. 31 at participating vendors, which display a yellow sign indicating benefits are accepted.

Checks are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis through 11 of Illinois’ 13 Area Agencies on Aging. In Chicago, distribution is handled by the Greater Chicago Food Depository.

The $40 benefit is $15 more than what most participants received in 2025, when limited federal funding held the benefit to $25. The Illinois Department of Human Services added funding for 2026 to raise the amount.

The checks can be used to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables, cut herbs and harvested honey.

Wiatr-Rodriguez also said the program comes at a time when food costs are rising, and SNAP eligibility changes have reduced benefits for many families.

“It’s one of the great things about summertime in Illinois to be able to go out enjoy a farmers market; obviously, the nutritional benefits are amazing,” she said. “Whatever we can do to help people stretch their food dollars and help stretch, by getting access to really healthy, nutritious foods.”

To qualify, seniors must be at least 60 years old and have a household income at or below 185% of the federal poverty level.

For a one-person household, the monthly income limit is $2,461. For a two-person household, the limit is $3,337 per month.

Seniors who want to enroll or find out if they qualify are asked to contact their local Area Agency on Aging.