Food Assistance Programs You Need to Know About

If you’re in need of food assistance, there are several programs that can help. Take a look at some of the most popular food programs, then decide which one best fits your needs.

The Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) is made up of 15 federally operated programs that aim to end hunger and obesity. Within the FNS, there are a few especially great programs you need to know about.

Keep reading to learn about the most popular food assistance programs available right now.

Top Food Assistance Programs Right Now

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

The SNAP program is the largest federal food assistance program, helping more than 45 million Americans, and is one of the most important programs in the nation.

To get SNAP benefits, you must apply in the state that you live and meet the income requirements.

If you qualify, you will be given an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. Benefits will be added to your card automatically, for a certain period of time. Once that time ends, you will need to recertify to continue getting benefits.

This should be the first program to look into, as it serves the most people throughout the country. Start by applying here on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) website.

Free Food Programs for Seniors

Most states offer free food assistance to Seniors with low income. Check the map on the following link to see if your state offers a program Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program map.

The minimum age requirement for this program is 60.

Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program

This program is one to look into if you’re a woman or have children.

The WIC program provides protection to low-income pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum women. It also helps children under the age of 5 who have nutritional problems.

If you feel this program could benefit you and your family, please follow the link to apply. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

Commodity Supplemental Food Program

The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) works to improve the health and diet of people over the age of 60.

The USDA provides financial backing to these state-run programs so that people who qualify get access to healthy, nutritious food.

To find out if you are eligible for this program, visit the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) website.

The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP)

TEFAP spends about half a billion dollars each year in USDA food banks around the country.

This program helps people of all ages. Learn more at Benefits.gov.