Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) - North Carolina

The North Carolina Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) provides adults age 60 and older with a free box of food every month. Each box contains items like grains, canned fruits and vegetables, and juice. These foods provide important nutrients many older adults need, like vitamins A and C, calcium, and iron.

In North Carolina, the program is run by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and distributed through local food banks and distribution partners. 

How does the North Carolina Commodity Supplemental Food Program work?  

The North Carolina 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—usually about a 40-pound box—from a North Carolina food distribution center near you. You can also designate someone to pick them up for you if you are unable.  

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 North Carolina 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 North Carolina.  

Note: You’ll likely need to renew eligibility periodically. In some areas, waiting lists may apply depending on demand.

Am I eligible for the North Carolina Senior Food Box Program?  

To be eligible for the North Carolina CSFP, you must meet certain requirements. You must: 

• Be age 60 or older 

• Be a resident of the county in which you apply (proof of county residency may be required) 

• Your income must be at or below 150% of the federal poverty limit (low-income level set by the government). 

Click here to view the current CSFP income limits based on your household size. 

How do I apply for the North Carolina CSFP? 

To apply for the North Carolina CSFP, you must contact a local CSFP agency. To find participating CSFP agencies, click here. Once you reach out to a CSFP contact in your region, they will help determine if you qualify, answer any questions you may have about the program, and let you know what documentation you may need.  

What if I cannot get help from the North Carolina CSFP? 

If you are unable to get help from North Carolina’s CSFP, there are many other food assistance programs that can help you receive nutritious meals: 

• 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 their website to find a food pantry near you. 

• SNAP (food stamps) helps you pay for groceries each month. You use a special card (EBT card) to buy food at most stores. And even if you receive SNAP, you could still be eligible for North Carolina’s CSFP. 

• 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.