Michigan Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)

If you live in Michigan and you are having trouble affording nutritious groceries on a regular basis, the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) can provide you with certain foods at no cost. This program may also be called the Senior Food Box Program.

The purpose of the CSFP is to promote good health. If you meet program guidelines, you will receive a monthly food package, which varies in size and contents by state.

How does the Michigan Commodity Supplemental Food Program work?

The Commodity Supplemental Food Program gives free, healthy food each month to low-income adults age 60 and older. CSFP food boxes are distributed through community action agencies, food banks, and other nonprofit organizations to give older Michigan residents the nutrients they may not get from regular meals.

Each food in your box fits into one of five main food groups, so you can make healthy meals at home. 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

The Michigan CSFP is not meant to give you all your food, but it helps stretch your food budget and adds good nutrition to your meals. Even if you already get help from other food programs like SNAP, you can still get a senior food box.

The USDA allows all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and some Tribal groups to run the CSFP.

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

You may be eligible if you are:

-

Age 60 or older

-

A Michigan resident

-

Your income is under 150% of the federal poverty level.

If you don’t meet the above requirements, don’t worry. You could be eligible for CSFP if you receive one of the following:

-

Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)

-

Supplemental Food Assistance Program (SNAP)

-

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

-

The Low-Income Subsidy Program

-

Medicare Savings Program

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

To apply for Michigan’s Senior Food Box Program you must complete an application with your county agency. When applying, you must provide proof of age and residency, such as a driver’s license, but income is self-declared.

What if I cannot get help from the Michigan CSFP?

If you cannot get help from this program, don’t worry. There are many programs that help older adults get healthy food:

-

Meals on Wheels brings hot, healthy meals right to your door. This program is available in most communities.

-

Food banks and pantries give free groceries to people who need them. They’re run by groups like Feeding America. Visit this website to find one near you.

-

SNAP (food stamps) helps you pay for groceries each month. You use a special card (EBT card) to buy food at most stores.

-

Group meal sites serve hot meals in places like senior centers, schools, or 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.