TEFAP — free USDA commodity foods
TEFAP (The Emergency Food Assistance Program) is the federal program that purchases food and distributes it free through state agencies and partner food banks/pantries. About $400 million/year in commodity food. Common items: canned fruit, canned vegetables, peanut butter, rice, pasta, beef, poultry.
What TEFAP provides
- Canned fruits + vegetables
- Canned meat (beef, poultry, fish)
- Beans, peanut butter, rice, pasta
- Cheese, milk, butter (some states)
- Whole grains (cereal, bread, tortillas)
- Eggs (cold-chain participating sites)
- Frozen ground beef + chicken (varies by state)
How TEFAP works
- USDA buys food at competitive prices, ships to states
- States distribute to "eligible recipient agencies" — food banks, pantries, soup kitchens, mobile distributions
- Food banks/pantries distribute to households at no cost
- Eligibility: 130%-185% federal poverty level depending on your state
- Self-attestation accepted in most states (no proof required)
Where to find TEFAP commodities
TEFAP is distributed through your local food bank network. Search Feed America by ZIP — most food pantries we list have a TEFAP component. Look for "USDA Commodities" or "TEFAP" in the pantry description, or call ahead.
TEFAP vs other food programs
- SNAP: Monthly cash benefit for groceries. TEFAP is physical commodity food.
- WIC: Specifically for pregnant women + kids under 5. TEFAP is general-population.
- School meals: School-age kids during school year. TEFAP can supplement.
- D-SNAP: Disaster-specific. TEFAP is regular ongoing program.
- CSFP (commodity-supplemental): Senior-specific (60+). TEFAP is general age range.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need ID for TEFAP?
Most states accept self-attestation of need + address. Some states ask for ID. Call your local food bank for specifics.
How often can I receive TEFAP?
Most states allow monthly TEFAP distributions per household. Some sites distribute weekly. Mobile pantries on TEFAP-funded distributions sometimes monthly per stop.
What's the difference between TEFAP and a food pantry?
A food pantry is the distribution site. TEFAP is the federal program that supplies a portion of the pantry's food. Most pantries combine TEFAP commodities with locally-donated and -purchased food.
Is TEFAP being cut?
TEFAP is reauthorized every 5 years in the federal Farm Bill. Funding levels vary. Current 2024-2029 cycle: $400-500M/year in commodity purchases.
Feed America (EIN 92-1761881) — 501(c)(3) public charity, Houston TX. Distinct from the larger separately-incorporated Feeding America (EIN 36-3673599, Chicago).