Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services partners with Healthy Together to launch Farmers Market Nutrition Program technology tool

RICHMOND, Va., May 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Healthy Together and The Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitation Services (DARS) announce an innovative digital solution for its 2025 season of the Senior and WIC Farmers Market Nutrition Program (S/FMNP). This app-based technology is designed to streamline the administration of the Farm Market Fresh program, operated by DARS' Division for Aging Services.

DARS selected Healthy Together, a technology company providing Software as a Service (SaaS) solution for government agencies. The customized platform is designed to simplify the process for program administrators, farmers and participants. The new solution will improve the efficiency of managing applications, issuing benefits and tracking program participation through an intuitive, user-friendly system.

"The transition from a paper-based coupon system to a digital platform marks a major advancement in Virginia, offering greater ease for participants, farmers and staff, while improving access to fresh, locally grown produce for eligible seniors and WIC families," said DARS Commissioner Kathy Hayfield.

"We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Virginia and bring our innovative solution to more communities," said Jared Allgood, CEO at Healthy Together. "Our successful collaborations in Maryland and Florida have demonstrated the impact of digital solutions in enhancing food security, improving access to nutritious food, and supporting local farmers. We are excited to bring these benefits to Virginia."

About the Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitation Services (DARS):
DARS is committed to enhancing the quality of life for older Virginians and individuals with disabilities by providing services that promote independence, dignity and community integration. Through partnerships with local Area Agencies on Aging, Department of Health, Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, and other community partners, DARS supports numerous programs, including Farm Market Fresh, which helps low-income seniors ages 60 and older and WIC families, to access nutritious food from farmers markets across the commonwealth. For more information, visit vda.virginia.gov/farmmarketfresh.htm.

About Healthy Together: Healthy Together is a leader in SaaS solutions for government programs. With a focus on innovation and user-centered design, Healthy Together empowers state and local governments to deliver more efficient, transparent, and effective services. The company's platforms streamline operations in programs such as Summer EBT, Medicaid, and WIC, enabling better service delivery, compliance, and cost savings. For more information, please contact: [email protected].

SOURCE Healthy Together