How to Apply for the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)

What is CSFP?

• CSFP refers to the Commodity Supplemental Food Program through the New York State Department of Health.
• CSFP offers free nutritious food to adults who are 60 years and older. 
• During the summer months, participants of CSFP also receive benefits to purchase food at farmers’ markets through the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program.

Who qualifies for CSFP?

• You must be a New York State resident who is 60 years and older and whose income falls within the income guidelines. 

Where is CSFP available?

• New York City and Long Island only

How do I apply for CSFP?

• Please call a CSFP local agency provider that is closest to you for application information.

What are the CSFP local agency providers?

• For the Bronx, New York, Queens, Kings, and Nassau/Suffolk counties:
  • New York Common Pantry, 788 Southern Blvd., Bronx, NY 10455
  • [phone]
• For the Bronx, New York, Queens, Kings counties:
  • Kings County Hospital Center, 840 Alabama Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11207
  • [phone]
• For the Bronx, New York, Queens, Kings, Richmond, Nassau/Suffolk counties:
  • Food Bank for New York City
  • [phone]
• For Long Island:
  • Island Harvest
  • [phone]

How will I receive my food from CSFP?

• You must pick up your food at a convenient food distribution location each month.

Which foods will I receive from CSFP?

• Cheese, ultra-high temperature and nonfat dry milk, canned vegetables, canned fruits, canned meat, chicken, fish, breakfast cereals, fruit juices, rice, spaghetti, macaroni, whole grain rotini, peanut butter, dried beans, and canned beans

Does CSFP offer any additional benefits?

• Yes, you will also receive:
  • Guidance about preparing nutritious meals, including cooking demonstrations,
  • Health information from nutritionists, and
  • Referrals to health care and social service agencies.

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Sources:

• https://www.health.ny.gov/prevention/nutrition/csfp/
• https://www.fns.usda.gov/sfmnp/senior-farmers-market-nutrition-program
• https://www.health.ny.gov/prevention/nutrition/csfp/what_is_provided.htm
• https://www.health.ny.gov/prevention/nutrition/csfp/apply.htm 
• https://www.health.ny.gov/prevention/nutrition/csfp/income_guidelines.htm