University of Idaho Extension, Southwest District Health report strong participation in senior produce voucher program

On Oct. 20, 2025, Daniel Adams of Southwest District Health reported to the Caldwell City Council on the fifth annual Senior Produce Program, a partnership involving Southwest District Health, the University of Idaho Extension and Destination Caldwell.

Daniel Adams, a health education specialist at Southwest District Health who coordinates the Caldwell Health Coalition, said the program ran July 15 through Sept. 30 to align with produce availability and that organizers increased voucher funding to just under $15,000 for the season. Adams said the program supported 342 households and recorded its highest voucher redemption rate in the five years of the program.

Adams described program goals as improving access to fresh fruits and vegetables for eligible seniors aged 60 and older, providing social opportunities and supporting local farmers. He said an average of 105 participating households returned each week and that the program drew primarily from Canyon County — about 90% of participants — with an increase in Caldwell residents compared with previous years. Adams also noted that about 20% of new participants reported getting a ride to the market, indicating transportation can be a barrier for some older adults.

Organizers worked with partners and funders that included the city of Caldwell, the American Heart Association, Idaho Food Bank, Saint Luke’s, Select Health and Destination Caldwell. Adams said the program used volunteers — 36 this season — and reintroduced youth volunteer opportunities to strengthen intergenerational connection.

The program also worked with University of Idaho Extension Master Gardeners, who ran a “backyard gardeners” booth accepting donated produce and cash. Adams reported just over 3,000 pounds of donated produce and nearly $1,500 that was reinvested into the voucher program; leftover produce was directed to local food access partners such as Community Council of Idaho and a Veterans Hall pantry. Adams said the organizers had to turn people away because vouchers ran out quickly and said staff will seek additional partnerships and funding to expand capacity next year.

Council members praised the program’s benefits for nutrition, social connection and local agriculture and offered to help increase donations. No formal action was required; the presentation was informational and staff invited council members and community partners to participate in future coalition meetings.