Seniors in wait game for food help

South Carolina’s seniors who rely on a state assistance program to supplement summertime food purchases are going to have to remain patient.  The state has yet to issue checks which can be spent in the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program.  This year, according to LaShauna Harrison, of the Oconee United Way, says this year applications are being handled online by the state DSS, but there’s a delay.  “We’re looking at, probably the end of the month, getting those applications finished and the ones approved, so we can give out those vouchers,” Harrison said.  Approved participants receive $25 dollars in the form of five checks ($5 each) to spend at authorized locations.  To qualify, South Carolina residents must be 60 or older with a yearly income of $23,832 or less ($32,232 for 2 people), and have a valid driver’s license or state-issued ID.  The assistance has a dual benefit.  Besides nutritional value, they put money in the pockets of South Carolina farmers.