Hundreds of seniors in the Valley are taking advantage of a new program that hopes to provide them with fresh food for their plates.

It was a packed house at the Staunton Senior Center Tuesday as older residents of Staunton, Waynesboro and Augusta county lined up to get coupon books they can use at local farmer's markets.

The program, called the Senior Farmer's Market Nutrition Program, is in it's fifth year and is funded by the Valley Program for Aging Services.

They received a $12,000 grant this year from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Seniors will receive $40 worth of coupons that will allow them to buy fresh food from participating markets.

Seniors say it's something they rely on every year, especially during tough economic times.

Enrolled senior Rosa Rexrode says, "I think it's the best. It helps people that don't get much income. It really helps them."

Enrollment will continue at the Staunton Senior Center Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Organizers say it's a first come, first serve basis and coupons are limited.