Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) - Vermont

Vermont's Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP), also called the Senior Food Box Program, helps older adults with low incomes get free food. If you are 60 or older and live in Vermont, you may qualify to receive a food box each month. The food can help you save money on groceries while getting nutritious foods to prepare meals at home.

Each box weighs about 25 to 30 pounds and contains a variety of foods to help you prepare meals and get important nutrients.

How does the Vermont Commodity Supplemental Food Program work?

The Vermont Senior Food Box Program provides a free box of food each month to older adults who qualify. The food is meant to add to the groceries you already have, not cover everything you need to eat for the month. It can help you stretch your grocery budget and include more nutritious foods in your meals.

The foods in your box may change each month. You may receive shelf-stable items such as:

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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

Each box contains about $50 worth of food. You can also receive a Senior Food Box if you get help from another food assistance program, including SNAP.

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

You may qualify for the program if you:

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Are age 60 or older

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Live in Vermont

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Meet the income guidelines

Where can I pick up a Senior Food Box in Vermont?

Food box distribution sites are located throughout Vermont. Check the Vermont Senior Food Box distribution site list to find a location near you.

You can pick up your box at a distribution site or arrange for someone else to collect it for you. Staff at these locations can also explain how to sign up and answer your questions about the program.

What if I cannot get help from the Vermont Senior Food Box Program?

You may still have options for getting food if you do not qualify for the program or cannot access it where you live. Consider these services:

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

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Food banks and food pantries: These organizations may provide free groceries if you need help paying for food. Contact a local pantry to ask what food is available and how to get it. Find a food bank in Vermont.

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SNAP: SNAP helps you pay for groceries each month. Your benefits are added to an EBT card that you can use at stores that accept SNAP.

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Group meal sites: You may be able to get meals at community locations, such as senior centers, schools, and churches.

You can also search for food assistance programs in your area through our website. 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 get free help from the NCOA HelpLine. Call 1-800-794-6559 to get started.