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Davis County reports voucher redemptions and secures $50,000 SNAP outreach grant
Summary
County staff reported 63 seniors enrolled in the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program, 422 vouchers redeemed to date, and a $50,000 SNAP outreach grant to expand enrollment support and hire a dietitian to assist seniors, including homebound residents.
Debbie briefed the Davis County Senior Services Advisory Board on the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program and related SNAP outreach efforts, reporting that program participants redeemed 422 vouchers in early weeks (each voucher worth $5) and that 63 seniors are currently enrolled.
"We had product individuals who redeemed 422 vouchers," Debbie said, describing a shift from summer produce to fall crops (beets, potatoes, onions) and strong interest in sampled items such as mini melons. Staff noted distribution occurs at three centers and that vouchers can also be used at participating markets outside the county.
The board discussed vendor participation, administrative burdens for farmers and state enrollment requirements. Staff said some farmers decline to participate because of the tracking and reimbursement requirements (vouchers must be held and processed), and board members suggested recipe cards and sampling to increase uptake of unfamiliar produce.
On outreach, staff reported a SNAP enrollment grant initially requested at $67,000 was reduced in financial review to $50,000; the county expects the funds will support a staff position and the newly hired registered dietitian will provide SNAP enrollment assistance and nutrition counseling for homebound seniors. Staff emphasized that the grant targets senior SNAP enrollment only and described plans for a media and outreach blitz once agreements are executed.
Board members raised concerns about vendor enrollment processes and discussed efforts to recruit additional participating farmers (references made to Bug Farms and OpenShaw's as partners). No formal action was taken; staff will continue implementation and outreach.
