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Federal Program

CSFP (Senior Food Boxes)

Monthly food boxes for seniors 60 and older

What is CSFP?

The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) provides free monthly food packages to low-income seniors aged 60 and older. Each box contains a variety of nutritious, shelf-stable foods worth approximately $50-75.

CSFP is one of the most straightforward food assistance programs — if you're 60 or older and meet the income guidelines, you receive a monthly box of food. You can receive CSFP and SNAP at the same time.

What's in a CSFP Food Box?

A typical monthly CSFP box includes:

  • Shelf-stable milk and juice
  • Canned fruits and vegetables
  • Cereal and oats
  • Pasta or rice
  • Cheese
  • Peanut butter or dried beans
  • Canned meat or poultry

Important: Not All States Participate

CSFP is not available in every state. Contact your local food bank or call 211 to find out if CSFP is available in your area. If CSFP is not available, you can still use SNAP, food pantries, and Meals on Wheels for food assistance.

How to Apply

  1. 1 Contact your local food bank or Area Agency on Aging
  2. 2 Complete a short application
  3. 3 Provide proof of age and income
  4. 4 Pick up monthly food boxes at a designated distribution site

What You Get

  • Monthly box of USDA foods including canned fruits/vegetables, juice, milk, cheese, oats, rice, pasta, peanut butter, canned meat, and more
  • Approximately 25-30 pounds of food per month

Key Facts

  • You can receive CSFP and SNAP at the same time — they stack
  • CSFP is separate from and in addition to food pantry visits
  • Not available in all states — check with your local food bank
  • No ongoing paperwork — once approved, you receive boxes monthly

Official Resources

Related Programs

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get CSFP and SNAP?
Yes. You can receive both CSFP food boxes and SNAP benefits simultaneously. They are completely separate programs.
Is CSFP available in my state?
CSFP operates in most states but not all. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging or food bank to check availability.

Find a Food Pantry Near You

Food pantries provide immediate food assistance alongside CSFP.