Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) - Ohio

If you live in Ohio and need extra help putting nutritious food on the table, Ohio’s Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) delivers a free box of healthy foods each month for older adults. 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 Ohio, the program is run by the Ohio Department of Job & Family Services and distributed through local food banks and distribution partners.  

How does the Ohio Commodity Supplemental Food Program work?   

The Ohio 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 an Ohio 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 Ohio 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 Ohio. 

Note: You receive CSFP benefits for one year. In the last month of your certification year, the program will review your information to make sure you still qualify. Depending on demand and distribution location, there may also be a waiting list.

Am I eligible for the Ohio Senior Food Box Program?   

To be eligible for the Ohio 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 is 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 Ohio’s current CSFP income limits. Note that local agencies may ask for additional documentation at their discretion. 

How do I apply for the Ohio CSFP?  

To apply for the Ohio CSFP, you must contact a local CSFP agency or food distribution site. View the Ohio CSFP map to find one near you. 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 help you apply.  

Unlike some other states, Ohio does not require proof of income. However, you will need to have copies of the following documents ready when you apply:  

• Proof of age (such as a birth certificate or driver’s license) 

• Proof of Identity (such as a birth certificate, driver’s license, or passport) 

• Proof of residency (such as a utility bill, driver’s license, lease agreement, or deed) 

For a complete list of documents that will be accepted, or to learn more about application and eligibility criteria, you can view the Ohio CSFP State Plan. 

What if I cannot get help from the Ohio CSFP?  

If you are unable to get help from Ohio’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 the Ohio Association of Foodbanks. 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 Ohio’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.