What is TEFAP, and why should I review it?

The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) is a federal initiative that provides free food to low-income individuals and families to help supplement their diets.

While the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) oversees TEFAP at the national level, each state administers the program locally. This means states have the flexibility to set specific eligibility criteria and distribution methods, leading to variations in how TEFAP operates across the country.

Note: Some food pantries and food banks will require you to declare your TEFAP eligibility. Use this handy table below to find your state and click the link to review your local TEFAP requirements.

Below is a table listing each state along with a link to its TEFAP guidelines: