Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) - Connecticut

If you are age 60 or older and live in Connecticut, the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) may help you get healthy food at no cost. Also known as the Senior Food Box Program, CSFP helps older adults with low incomes get food to add to their meals and stretch their grocery budget.

If you qualify, you can receive a food box each month. The box weighs about 40 pounds and includes a variety of foods you can use to prepare meals at home.

How does the Connecticut Commodity Supplemental Food Program work?

CSFP provides food each month to Connecticut residents age 60 and older who meet the program's income limits. The food box includes items from different food groups to help you get important nutrients. CSFP foods may include:

• Canned fruits and vegetables

• Canned meats (such as canned beef, pork, and beef stew)

• Pasta or rice

• Dry beans or peanut butter

• Fruit juices

• Dry cereals

• Cheese

• Powdered and canned milk

CSFP is meant to supplement the food you already have. It does not provide all the food you need each month. Instead, the food box can help lower your grocery costs and add healthy foods to your meals.

You can receive a CSFP food box even if you get help from another food program, such as SNAP. Each box provides about $50 worth of food.

Who can get help from the Connecticut Senior Food Box Program?

You can get help from the CSFP if you are:

• Age 60 or older

• A resident of Connecticut

• Have income at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)

• You must also be able to provide a valid form of identification, such as a driver's license, Permanent Resident Card, or passport.

How do I find a Senior Food Box Program near me?

To find out if you qualify or apply for CSFP, contact a participating provider in Connecticut. You can apply directly through the provider. They can also tell you where and when you can pick up your food box. Find a CSFP provider near you.

You can also call 211 to find a CSFP food pickup location near you.

What if I cannot get help from Connecticut CSFP?

If you cannot get help through Connecticut’s CSFP, there are many other programs that may help you get the food you need:

• Meals on Wheels: Meals on Wheels is a national program that delivers meals to your home. This service is available in many communities.

• Food banks and food pantries: Provide free groceries to people who need help. Find a food bank in Connecticut.

• SNAP: Helps you pay for groceries each month. You receive benefits on an EBT card that you can use at participating stores.

• Group meal sites: Provide meals at places such as senior centers, schools, and churches.

You can also use our website to find out which of these food assistance programs are available in your area—just enter your ZIP code to get started.

Who can I talk to for help?

If you need additional help finding food, contact a Benefits Enrollment Center (BEC), if there’s one near you.https://benefitscheckup.org/article/how-to-find-a-benefits-enrollment-center-near-youSee if there’s one in your area.

NCOA also has a HelpLine you can call to get free support. To get started today, call 1-800-794-6559.