Farmers markets will open on schedule but vouchers for senior citizens to purchase food will be delayed.

The Barton County Health Department announced an important update for local seniors regarding the 2025 Kansas Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (KSFMNP).

Due to unforeseen delays in the state’s contracting and procurement process, the start of this year’s KSFMNP has been postponed. Currently, there is no confirmed date from the state for when the program will begin.

This update applies only to the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program. Great Bend’s Summer Street Stroll Farmers Market itself will still open as scheduled on Thursday, May 29. Seniors and other community members are welcome to shop at this and other farmers markets beginning on opening day.

According to a statement from the Barton County Health Department, they do not have applications for the vouchers and the state has not made them aware of when the program will start.

“The department understands that many local seniors look forward to participating in the KSFMNP each summer. Staff are actively monitoring state communications and will share any new information with the public as soon as it is received.

“In addition to the delay, a statewide reduction in program resources means that Barton County will receive fewer coupon booklets than in past years. Once the booklets arrive, the department will distribute them as fairly and efficiently as possible to eligible seniors.

“The Barton County Health Department remains dedicated to supporting the health and well-being of local seniors and ensuring access to fresh, locally-grown produce. Updates will be provided as soon as more information becomes available.”