Starting May 18, Maui Economic Opportunity will distribute $50 food coupons to people 60 and older whose individual income does not exceed $23,051.

The coupons can be used to buy fresh fruit, vegetables, herbs and honey from MEO-certified farmers through Sept. 30.

Last year, more than 4,000 low-income residents and 57 farmers participated in the U.S. Department of Agriculture program, which seeks to increase consumption, production and distribution of locally grown produce. MEO chief executive officer Sandy Baz said the program also was responsible for infusing $200,000 into the local economy.

The coupons will be available from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays at MEO offices on Maui, Moloka'i and Lana'i. Those seeking coupons must bring their 2008 federal tax return or all 2008 annual income statements, including income from employment, Social Security, disability, retirement funds and pensions, interest and dividends. For more information, call Krislyn Mossman at 249-2990.

Farmers interested in participating in the program should call Agnes Groff at the same number.