Program Descriptions

Emergency Food

Food Banks are found in communities throughout Arizona and can provide a variety of Food assistance to help feed you and your family in an emergency situation. Food Banks come in many sizes and vary in what programs they offer.

The Emergency Food Box Program (TEFAP) This program helps supplement the diets of low-income Americans by providing them with emergency food and nutrition assistance at no cost. Participants can receive a TEFAP package for their household at least once a month by visiting their local Distribution Site (Food Pantry). The food inside these packages are shelf-stable which means they don't require refrigeration. Items may include canned or dried fruits, vegetables and legumes (beans), bottles juices, and nuts. Food packages are often supplemented with fresh produce, grains, pasta, bread and meat-based protein. For more information including eligibility and how to apply, please visit https://des.az.gov/services/basic-needs/food-assistance/emergency-food-assistance.

Commodity Senior Food Program (CSFP) This program works to improve the health of low-income persons who are at least 60 years of age by supplementing their diets with a monthly package of nutritious food at no cost. CSFP food packages do not provide a complete diet but are good sources of the nutrients typically lacking in the diets of participants. Packages include a variety of foods, such as nonfat dry and ultra high-temperature fluid milk, juice, farina, oats, ready-to-eat cereal, rice, pasta, peanut butter, dry beans, canned meat, poultry or fish, canned fruits and vegetables. For more information including eligibility and how to apply, please visit https://des.az.gov/services/basic-needs/food-assistance/az-commodity-senior-food-program.