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