THE USDA Food and Nutrition Service administers a program where low-income seniors can receive coupons for shopping at participating farmers' markets. Currently, there are nearly 3,000 markets that participate in the program.
Fruits, vegetables, and herbs are among the foods that are covered by the coupons. State agencies can impose restrictions where the coupons are only good on foods that are produced locally. Certain foods -- such as dried fruits, potted plants, and honey -- are not covered by the coupons.

Personally, I think this program is a great idea. While the traditional food stamps are still available for low-income citizens, they don't cover farmers' markets. Giving people greater access to fresh, locally-grown foods is not only good for their health, it's good for the local economy and for the environment.

The USDA also has a farmers' market program for WIC (Women, Infants and Children).