Food assistance resources for adults 60+ in the U.S.

CSFP is not the only food help for older adults in the U.S. If you live where there is a waiting list, or if you would like extra support, these four programs are worth a look. Several of them can be used along with CSFP.

SNAP: help to buy groceries

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides monthly benefits on an EBT card, which you use to buy food at authorized stores. Each state runs the program, takes applications and decides eligibility based on household income and other rules.

SNAP and CSFP can go hand in hand: USDA names SNAP among the programs that CSFP participants may also qualify for, and local CSFP agencies are required to give applicants information about SNAP. If you have already been approved for SNAP, your state may accept that as proof of income when you apply for the food box. To apply, get in touch with your state SNAP agency.

Food pantries and TEFAP

The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) is a federal program that supplies emergency food at no cost to people with low income. USDA purchases American-grown foods and ships them to the states, which pass them along through food banks and local pantries. Each state sets its own TEFAP income guidelines.

A pantry may suit you when you need food soon, while you wait to hear back from CSFP or SNAP. Your local food bank can tell you which nearby pantries participate and which days they are open.

Meals for older adults

Many areas offer meal services for older adults, including prepared meals brought to the home for people who find it hard to get out. These services are organized locally, so what is available, the rules and any waiting times depend on where you live.

To find them, call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116, the number USAGov gives for home-delivered food and meals for older adults. You can also dial 211 to be connected with local food and community services.

Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program

The Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) provides coupons that older adults can spend on fruits, vegetables, honey and herbs at farmers markets, roadside stands and community-supported agriculture farms. It is not a box of food: you pick the items yourself from participating sellers.

USDA says the program generally serves people who are at least 60 years old and whose household income is no more than 185% of the federal poverty guidelines. State agencies, such as a Department of Agriculture or Aging, run it, and it is not available everywhere, so check with your state.

Common questions

Can I use more than one program?
Often, yes. USDA names SNAP, TEFAP and the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program among the programs that CSFP participants may also qualify for. Each has its own application and rules.

Will the CSFP food lower my other benefits?
Under federal rules, the value of CSFP benefits may not be counted as income or resources for other public assistance programs.

Where do I find the official contact for my state?
USDA maintains a contacts page for its food programs, sorted by state. Each state must also publish online a list of its local CSFP agencies, with address and phone number.

Does anyone charge to sign me up?
No. CSFP agencies are not allowed to ask for payment, and there is no fee to apply for SNAP. Be wary of anyone who asks for money, bank details or a payment to speed up your application.

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This page is informational and is not affiliated with USDA, state agencies, food banks, the Eldercare Locator or 211. Eligibility, income limits and availability are set by each program and state and may change. Sources: USDA pages for CSFP, TEFAP and SFMNP, USAGov and 7 CFR Part 247, checked in September 2026.