Maine Senior FarmShare Program Celebrates 25th Anniversary at Agricultural Trades Show

Jan 12, 2026

The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry's Maine Senior FarmShare Program (MSFP) will celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2026, marking a quarter-century of improving food security for older adults while strengthening Maine's farming economy.

Since launching in 2001, MSFP has connected hundreds of Maine farms with approximately 15,000 income-eligible seniors each year, providing access to fresh, Maine-grown fruits, vegetables, culinary herbs, and honey. Participants receive a $50 farm share redeemable directly at farms and farmers' markets in all 16 counties.

The program was established with leadership from former Maine Governor John Baldacci, then a U.S. Representative on the House Agriculture Committee, and Gus Schumacher, former USDA Undersecretary, who helped secure Farm Bill funding for senior farmers market nutrition programs nationwide.

MSFP is nationally recognized for its impact. Maine receives the sixth-largest federal allocation in the country, reflecting both demonstrated need and strong program performance.

Source : maine.gov

Video: Syngenta Ag Stories - Reanna Hagel, Channel Marketing Manager

Growing up on a cow-calf operation and small feedlot near Lumby, BC, Reanna learned agriculture the hands-on way with her sister on the family farm. Today, as Channel Marketing Manager for Syngenta Canada, what Reanna loves most about her work is simple: the customer is always at the centre. Whether that's a grower or a channel partner, she understands them on a personal level - because she's the daughter of one. But for Reanna, supporting ag doesn't stop at her job. She volunteers with local 4-H clubs, lends a hand to her farming neighbours, and is raising her own kids to understand and respect the land. Her advice to the next generation? "It's an amazing time to be in the industry - it's going to look completely different in 20 years. To be part of the evolution is very exciting."