Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) - Washington

In Washington, the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP), also called the Senior Food Box Program, offers eligible adults age 60 and older a way to get free food. If you qualify, you can receive a box of food each month to help you get important nutrients and vitamins that may be missing from your regular diet.

Each box weighs about 40 pounds and contains foods you can store and use to make meals at home.

How does the Washington Commodity Supplemental Food Program work?

Washington’s CSFP helps eligible older adults get a monthly box of food through 12 CSFP lead agencies across the state. The food is meant to add to the groceries you already buy, not provide everything you need to eat for the month. Getting a box can also help lower your food costs and give you more options for meals.

The foods you receive may vary each month. A typical box includes shelf-stable foods 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

You can get food through CSFP even if you receive help from another food assistance program, including SNAP. Each box contains about $50 worth of food.

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

You may qualify for CSFP in Washington if you:

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Are age 60 or older

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Live in Washington

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Meet the income guidelines

When you apply, you must show proof of your identity and Washington address. You do not need to provide proof of income.

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

Washington has 12 agencies across the state that participate in CSFP and distribute food boxes. To find the agency serving your county, visit the Washington State Department of Agriculture’s Access Food near You page. Select your county to see available food assistance programs.

What if I cannot get help from Washington CSFP?

There are still ways to get food if you do not qualify for CSFP or if the program is not available in your county. Consider these options:

Meals on Wheels: In many communities, Meals on Wheels brings meals directly to your home.

Food banks and food pantries: These organizations offer free groceries to people who need help affording food. Find a food bank in Washington.

SNAP: The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps you pay for groceries. You receive benefits on an EBT card that you can use at stores that accept SNAP.

Group meal sites: You may be able to get meals at local places such as senior centers, schools, or churches.

You can also search for food assistance programs on 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 call the NCOA HelpLine at 1-800-794-6559 for free help.