Commodity Supplemental Food Program

Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) provides food boxes to nutritionally at-risk older adults living at or below 130% of the federal poverty guideline. The boxes include cereal, grits, powdered milk, rice, pasta, canned vegetables, fruit juice, peanut butter, canned meat, and dry beans. CSFP food distributions take place at convenient locations throughout Belknap, Carroll, Coos, Grafton, Merrimack, and Strafford Counties.

Often times, the foods in the CSFP food package do not provide a complete diet, but they serve as nutritious sources of nutrients that are often missing from participants’ diets. The program also aims to help older adults avoid poor health conditions associated with food insecurity and nutrient deficiencies.

State agencies manage CSFP through a unique public/private partnership. Local organizations such as food pantries, community and faith-based groups, and schools warehouse and distribute the food packages, certify eligibility and provide education to participants. The CSFP uses food commodities purchased under government farm supports to reach seniors who may not receive enough nutrition through other programs. The program has the added benefit of promoting volunteerism and a sense of community.

Eligibility

CSFP is administered at the state level by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). Local agencies are public, private nonprofit, or Indian tribal organizations that enter into an agreement with FNS to deliver supplemental foods to eligible seniors.

To be eligible for CSFP, individuals must meet the following criteria:

• Be 60 years of age or older.
• You must reside in a state or on an Indian reservation that participates in the CSFP
• Self-declare that they meet income guidelines.
• Have a valid government-issued identification with the date of birth, such as a driver’s license or state-issued ID card.
• Avoid making choices between basic needs, such as food and medical care.

How to Apply for CSFP?

The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) provides monthly food packages to low-income individuals at least 60 years old. Here’s how to apply step-by-step:

Find your local CSFP agency

• You can find your local CSFP agency by contacting your state distributing agency (SDA) or by visiting the USDA CSFP website: https://www.fns.usda.gov/csfp/program-contacts
• You can also call the toll-free USDA National Hunger Hotline at 1-866-3-HUNGRY (1-866-348-6479) for assistance.

Contact your local CSFP agency

• Call or visit your local CSFP agency to inquire about the application process.
• They will provide you with an application form and any additional information you need.
• Some agencies may require you to schedule an appointment.

Complete the application form

• The application form will ask for information about your household, such as your name, address, income, and family members.
• Be sure to complete the form accurately and legibly.
• You may need to provide documentation to verify your income, such as a pay stub or tax return.

Submit your application

• Submit your completed application form to your local CSFP agency.
• They will review your application and determine your eligibility for the program.

Attend an orientation

• If you are approved for the program, you must attend an orientation.
• The orientation will provide you with information about the program, including what foods are included in the monthly food packages, how to pick up your food, and how to get the most out of the program.

Pick up your food

• Once you have completed the orientation, you can pick up your monthly food package at your local CSFP agency.
• The food package will include a variety of nutritious foods, such as canned fruits and vegetables, dry beans, rice, pasta, and cereal.