A new nutrition program provides local produce to senior citizens throughout the summer of 2008.

Olympic Community Action Programs, a poverty fighting nonprofit, is instituting the program to facilitate a connection between local farms and area senior citizens with lower incomes.

Residents 60 years of age and older with a monthly income of less than $1,603, or $2,158 for a two-person household, are eligible for $40 in vouchers to use at farmers markets in Sequim, Port Angeles and Port Townsend.

“The program helps connect area seniors with local farmers,” said Kathy Crowley, the agency’s senior nutrition program manager. “It’s a great way for seniors to get a selection of fresh vegetables and fruits in their diet.”

The vouchers will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis and are valid through Oct. 31.

A simple application process is required. To apply, it is necessary to fill out an affidavit of eligibility at the Sequim Senior Activity Center, 921 E. Hammond St., Sequim; or at 228 W. First St., Suite J, Port Angeles; or 803 W. Park Ave., Port Townsend. Completed applications should be mailed to the Port Angeles office, 228 W. First St., Suite J, Port Angeles, WA 98362.

The OlyCAP agency is the peninsula’s largest nonprofit community services agency, operating more than 50 programs assisting low-income individuals and families. It organized other nutrition programs as well, such as Meals on Wheels and others throughout its service area, Clallam and Jefferson counties.

The agency is a partner agency of the United Way of Clallam County and United Good Neighbors of Jefferson County.

The agency can be found online at www.olycap.org.