Some South Carolina seniors are hungry for help to put food on the table, according to the state Department of Social Services (DSS). Each year DSS offers seniors throughout the state $50 vouchers to make sure they are getting nutritious meals.
The South Carolina Department on Aging reports more than 25 percent of the state's population are seniors. Roughly 8 percent of them are facing food insecurity.
Becky Morrison is the director of development at Senior Resources in Columbia. She says 1 in 4 seniors struggle with food insecurities.
"We are seeing a skyrocketing rise in the need. About a year ago we had a waiting list. Now, it's easy to have 350 people or more on that list."
To help, DSS has partnered with each of the state's 46 counties to give $50 worth of food vouchers. It's part of the department's annual USDA funded food program.
The agency says in order to qualify, you have to be at least 60 years old and self-declare that you make less than $29,000 a year per household. You must also live in the county in which you are applying and have your state identification.
Vouchers are given out in $10 increments on a first come, first serve basis. The vouchers can be used at any participating farmer's markets, roadside stands or mobile markets throughout the state.
Click here to see the distribution schedule and the location closest to you. Or click here to see the full list of participating farmer's markets.
