Commodity Supplemental Food Program

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Food items considered commodities for government programs such as Commodity Supplemental Food Program

The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) is a United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) program that provides supplemental food assistance to low-income elderly individuals and, in some cases, low-income women, infants, and children. The program aims to improve the health and nutrition of its participants by providing them with nutritious USDA foods.

History

The CSFP was established in 1969 as a pilot program to provide supplemental food to pregnant and postpartum women, infants, and children up to age six. Over time, the program expanded to include low-income elderly individuals aged 60 and older. In 2014, the Agricultural Act of 2014 (also known as the Farm Bill) reauthorized the program and made significant changes, including phasing out the participation of women, infants, and children to focus solely on the elderly population.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the CSFP, individuals must meet specific income guidelines and be at least 60 years old. The income guidelines are set at or below 130% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Participants must also reside in a state that participates in the program, as not all states offer CSFP.

Benefits

Participants in the CSFP receive a monthly package of USDA foods, which may include items such as:

• Canned fruits and vegetables
• Canned meat, poultry, and fish
• Cheese
• Milk
• Dry beans or peanut butter
• Cereal and grains

These food packages are designed to provide nutrients that may be lacking in the diets of low-income elderly individuals. The program also offers nutrition education to help participants make healthier food choices and better manage their diets.

Administration

The CSFP is administered at the federal level by the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) of the USDA. At the state level, the program is managed by state agencies, which may include departments of health, social services, or agriculture. These state agencies work with local organizations, such as food banks and community action agencies, to distribute the food packages to eligible participants.

Impact

The CSFP plays a crucial role in reducing food insecurity among low-income elderly individuals. By providing access to nutritious foods, the program helps improve the overall health and well-being of its participants. Studies have shown that food assistance programs like the CSFP can lead to better health outcomes, including reduced rates of chronic diseases and improved nutritional status.

See also

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
• Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children
• National School Lunch Program
• Food security in the United States