Cayuga County's Office for the Aging says fewer Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program coupons will be available this year after a federal funding reduction.
The office said the USDA Food and Nutrition funding cut left Cayuga County with significantly fewer coupons than in previous years, even though distribution events had already been scheduled before the county learned of the reduction.
Coupons will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, according to the office. Once all available coupons are exhausted, remaining distribution events will be canceled.
County officials are asking residents to monitor the Office for the Aging's social media, website, or call the office to check whether a specific distribution has been canceled.
"We understand the impact this may have on older adults and families who rely on fresh produce," the office said in a release.
The Office for the Aging said it is working with partners to find alternative solutions. Residents who want to be added to a waiting list if additional coupons become available can call the office at 315-253-1226.
The Nutrition Program Office is located at 149 Genesee St., Box 5, in Auburn. The office can also be reached at 315-253-1550 or meals@cayugacounty.gov.
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