Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) - New Jersey

If you live in New Jersey 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 can get a 40-pound box of food each month.

How does the New Jersey Commodity Supplemental Food Program work?

The New Jersey Commodity Supplemental Food Program gives free, healthy food each month to low-income adults age 60 and older. CSFP food boxes are made to give older New Jersey residents the nutrients they may not get from regular meals. Each food box contains 10 different food groups, so you can make healthy meals at home.

CSFP foods may include:

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Canned fruits and vegetables

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

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Pasta or rice

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Dry beans or peanut butter

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Fruit juices

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Dry cereals

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Cheese

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Powdered and canned milk

The New Jersey CSFP works with local food banks to sign people up and give out CSFP food each month. This program 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. This box gives you about $50 worth of food.

Who can get help from the New Jersey Senior Food Box Program?

You can get help from the CSFP if you are:

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Age 60 or older

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A resident of New Jersey

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Able to provide a valid form of identification, such as a driver's license, Permanent Resident Card, or passport.

Note: In addition to the above requirements, your household income must also meet income requirements. Contact your local CSFP food bank to see if you may qualify.

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

To learn if you can get food assistance in New Jersey, contact one of New Jersey’s CSFP food banks. They can tell you whether you qualify for the CSFP and how to apply for this benefit.

What if I cannot get help from the New Jersey CSFP?

There are many programs that help older adults get healthy food:

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

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Food banks and pantries give free groceries to people who need them. They’re run by groups like Feeding America. Visit this websiteto find one where you live in New Jersey.

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

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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.