Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) - Illinois

The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) helps older adults stay healthy by providing a free box of food each month. Packages include items like grains, canned foods, and juice. While not a complete diet, these foods offer key nutrients many older adults may miss, such as vitamins A and C, calcium, and iron. In Illinois, the program is managed by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS).

How does the Illinois Commodity Supplemental Food Program work?

The Illinois 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 USDA Foods.

Once enrolled, you will pick up your monthly food package from an Illinois CSFP distribution center. In addition to receiving monthly food packages, you will also receive newsletters, recipes, and other nutrition education materials that promote a healthy lifestyle.

CSFP foods 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

The Illinois CSFP is not meant to provide you with all your food, but to help save you money and ensure your meals are nutritious. Even if you already get help from other food programs like SNAP, you can still get a senior food box in Illinois.

The USDA lets all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and some Tribal groups run the CSFP. In these areas, the program partners with local food banks, senior centers, and health clinics to enroll people and hand out monthly food packages.

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

To receive help from the Illinois 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 Senior Food Box Program near me?

To learn if you can get food assistance in Illinois, call or email the IDHS office at 1-800-843-6154 or find a local IDHS office near you. 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 Illinois 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 Illinois.
• SNAP (food stamps) helps you pay for groceries each month. You use a special card (EBT card) to buy food at most stores.
• 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.