Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) - Iowa

If you are 60 or older and live in one of the Iowa counties served by the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP), you may be able to get free food each month. CSFP helps older adults with low incomes get nutritious foods to add to the groceries they already have. This can help you save money on food.

How does the Iowa Commodity Supplemental Food Program work?

The Iowa CSFP program gives eligible older adults food at no cost. The food you receive is meant to supplement your regular groceries. It does not provide everything you need to eat for the month, but it can help you prepare meals and lower your grocery expenses.

In Iowa, CSFP participants can pick up their food in a grocery store-like setting at the Polk County distribution site. The site serves people who live in Polk, Dallas, Boone, Jasper, Story, and Warren counties.

If you have health or transportation problems that make it difficult to pick up your food, you may be able to have your food box delivered at no cost.

The foods available through CSFP may change each month. Your food package may include:

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Canned fruits and vegetables

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Canned meats, such as beef, pork, or beef stew

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Pasta or rice

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Dry beans or peanut butter

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Fruit juice

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Dry cereal

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Cheese

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Powdered or canned milk

You can take part in CSFP even if you receive other food benefits, including SNAP.

The local CSFP agency also provides nutrition information to participants. You will receive these materials when you pick up your food at the Polk County site or when your CSFP food box is delivered.

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

You may qualify for Iowa CSFP if you:

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Are age 60 or older

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Live in Polk, Dallas, Boone, Jasper, Story, or Warren County

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Meet the program's income limits

You will also need to provide proof of your age when you apply. Acceptable documents may include a driver's license, birth certificate, or passport.

How do I apply for Iowa CSFP?

There are several ways to apply for CSFP in Iowa. You can apply by phone, in person, or by mail.

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To apply by phone, call Polk County River Place Commodity Supplemental Foods at 515-286-3655.

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To apply in person or by mail, first complete the CSFP application. You can then mail the completed application or bring it to:

Polk County River Place Commodity Supplemental Foods

2309 Euclid Avenue

Des Moines, IA 50310

What if I cannot get help from Iowa CSFP?

You may still have other options if you do not meet the CSFP income limits or cannot receive a food box. The following programs may help you get food or meals:

• Meals on Wheels: Meals on Wheels delivers meals to your home in many communities.

• Food banks and food pantries: Food banks and pantries offer free groceries to people who need help paying for food. Find a food bank in Iowa.

• SNAP: SNAP provides monthly help with grocery costs. Benefits are added to an EBT card that you can use at stores that accept SNAP.

• Group meal sites: These community locations offer meals in places such as senior centers, schools, and churches.

You can also search our website for food assistance programs in your area. Enter your ZIP code to get started.

Who can I talk to for help?

A Benefits Enrollment Center (BEC) may be able to help you find food assistance and apply for benefits. Find a Benefits Enrollment Center near you.

You can also call the NCOA HelpLine for free assistance. Call 1-800-794-6559 to get started.