Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) - Florida

The Florida Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) provides older adults with a free box of food each month to support a healthy diet. The box includes items like grains, canned goods, and juice.

While it’s not a full diet, it provides important nutrients many older adults may not get enough of, such as vitamins A and C, calcium, and iron. In Florida, the program is managed by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

How does the Florida Commodity Supplemental Food Program work?

The Florida Commodity Supplemental Food Program is a federally funded program that works to improve the health of low-income adults age 60 and older by supplementing their diets with nutritious Foods. Local agencies throughout all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and some Tribal groups determine the eligibility of applicants, distribute monthly food packages, and provide nutrition education.

Once enrolled, you will pick up your monthly food package from a Florida CSFP distribution center. The Florida CSFP is not meant to provide you with all your food, but it helps stretch your budget and makes sure you have more nutritious options.

CSFP food packages 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

For a full list of CSFP foods available, you can view the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Foods Available List.

Who can get help from the Florida CSFP?

To receive food assistance from the Florida CSFP, you must be at least 60 years old and live in a county where the program is offered. You also need to meet the income guidelines, which are set at 150% of the federal poverty level or below.

In addition, you’ll be asked to provide identification, such as a driver’s license, utility bill, or Permanent Resident Card to confirm your eligibility. Those living in nursing homes or assisted living facilities do not qualify for help from this program.

How do I find a CSFP near me?

To learn if you can get help from CSFP in Florida, contact your local CSFP office. You can also call the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services at 1-800-435-7352 or send them a message by filling out an online contact form.  They can tell you whether you qualify for the CSFP, how to apply, and give you the location of a food distribution site near you.

What if I cannot get help from the Florida CSFP?

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

• Meals on Wheels delivers hot, healthy meals right to your door and is available in most communities.
• Food banks and pantries give free groceries to people who need them. They are run by groups like Feeding America. Visit this website to find one in Florida.
• SNAP (food stamps) helps you pay for groceries each month using a special card (EBT card) to buy food at most stores. Learn more about SNAP and how it can help you.
• Group meals, also known as congregate meals, serve hot and nutritious meals in places like senior centers, churches, or schools in your community.

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 help finding food assistance, you can:

• Contact a Benefits Enrollment Center (BEC)  See 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.