Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)
What is CSFP? How can it benefit me?
CSFP is a federal assistance program that is focused on improving the health of senior citizens that live with an income level less than 130% of the federal poverty level. The resources available to those that qualify for CSFP include the following:
- A free monthly package containing 10 days' worth of nutrient-rich foods to help maintain a healthy diet; valued at $55
- Recipes specific to each month's box that will help maximize the number of meals a person can prepare using ingredients in the box
- Nutrition education
Who qualifies for CSFP?
To qualify to receive benefits from CSFP, one must meet the following criteria:
- Be a Utah resident
- Be 60 years of age or older
- Have an annual income that is at or below 130% of the federal poverty guidelines
What typically comes in a box?
- Canned meat
- Peanut butter
- Cheese
- Fruit
- Dried beans
- Vegetables
- Shelf-stable milk
- Chili
- Rice
- Breakfast cereal
- Pasta
- Recipes specific to the included items
How can I receive CSFP benefits?
To participate in CSFP, fill out an application and submit to Utah Food Bank (UFB), who directly operate the program and distribute food to the program participants. Learn more about income eligibility and the food distribution schedule at the Utah Food Bank CSFP website.
Packages are delivered monthly to a delivery site determined by Utah Food Bank. Along the Wasatch Front, packages may be delivered directly to homes or to senior housing. Outside of this area, packages can be picked up at sites that are assigned according to where you live.
What happens if I don't pick up my box?
UFB has a no-show policy for people who do not pick up their boxes. Violation of the no‐show policy will result in forfeiture of CSFP benefits. Learn about it here.
Do you know?
If you do not meet the CSFP requirements but are homebound with a disability, you may qualify for the Utah Food Bank Food Box Program.
Meals on Wheels
The Meals on Wheels program provides nutritious meals to seniors. These meals are delivered to your home and are ready to eat. The program may vary depending on your city, and you may be asked to make a voluntary donation toward the meal you accept.
Learn about program eligibility and find the Meals on Wheels center closest to you.
Senior Center Meals
Many senior centers offer low-price congregate meals at their facilities for anyone 60 years or older. You can find your local senior center, when these meals are offered, and other details at this website.
Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP)
Did you know that CSFP participants can also receive Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) benefits? SFMNP is a program that provides participants with $50 in cash vouchers to use at participating farmers markets across Utah. These come in a booklet of ten vouchers that can be redeemed for $5 each.
Present your CSFP card at the farmers market information booth to receive your booklet.
See a complete list of farmers markets that accept SFMNP benefits.
Do you know about SNAP?
You may also qualify for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. SNAP is a program that provides additional money to buy food. For a quick overview, see the Food Security Council SNAP information page. To learn more and enroll, visit the official Utah SNAP services page.
Additionally, Salt Lake County seniors may qualify for Utah Food Bank Food Box program.
For additional information, please contact Dr. Palak Gupta.
Special thanks to Carson Johnson for compiling this information.