Food Access

National Resources

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) - The largest federal food assistance initiative in the U.S., offering monthly benefits to low-income individuals and families to help purchase nutritious groceries. Benefits are distributed via an EBT card and can be used for eligible food items like fruits, vegetables, dairy, meat, and grains. Eligibility is based on household income, size, and certain expenses, with specific rules for able-bodied adults without dependents. While some restrictions apply (e.g., no alcohol, hot food, or non-food items), SNAP serves as a vital resource for millions. Applications are managed at the state level, and individuals can apply online or through local agencies.

Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) - Provides nutritious foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and healthcare referrals to low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and children under the age of five who are at nutritional risk. Administered by the USDA, WIC aims to support healthy pregnancies, early childhood development, and long-term health. Participants receive monthly benefits to buy approved foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, milk, eggs, and infant formula. Eligibility is based on income, residency, and health or nutrition risk, and applications are typically made through local WIC clinics or health departments.

National School Lunch Program (NSLP) & School Breakfast Program (SBP) - Federally assisted meal programs that provide free or reduced-price meals to eligible children during the school day. Administered by the USDA and operated in public and nonprofit private schools, these programs aim to improve child nutrition, support academic performance, and reduce food insecurity. Meals served must meet federal nutrition standards, offering balanced options that include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy. Eligibility is based on household income, with children from families at or below 130% of the federal poverty level qualifying for free meals, and those between 130%–185% qualifying for reduced-price meals. Applications are submitted through local schools or districts.

Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) - A federal program that provides reimbursements for nutritious meals and snacks to eligible children and adults in day care settings. Administered by the USDA, CACFP supports child care centers, family day care homes, afterschool programs, adult day care centers, and emergency shelters. The goal is to improve the quality of care by ensuring access to balanced meals that meet specific dietary guidelines. Eligible participants include children under 13, at-risk youth up to 18 in afterschool programs, and adults who are elderly or have disabilities and attend adult day care. Providers must meet program requirements to receive reimbursements, and participation helps promote lifelong healthy eating habits.

The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) - A federal program that helps supplement the diets of low-income Americans by providing them with emergency food at no cost. Administered by the USDA, TEFAP distributes USDA-purchased foods to state agencies, which then supply food banks, pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters. These organizations use TEFAP foods to directly distribute groceries to eligible individuals or to prepare meals served on-site. Eligibility is typically based on income and residency, though requirements may vary by state. TEFAP plays a key role in addressing short-term hunger and supporting food security for individuals and families facing economic hardship.

Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) - A federal nutrition program that provides monthly food packages to low-income seniors aged 60 and older to help improve their diets and health. Administered by the USDA, CSFP does not supply complete meals but offers nutritious USDA foods such as canned fruits and vegetables, cereals, pasta, dairy, and lean proteins. These packages are designed to supplement the recipient’s diet with essential nutrients that may be lacking. To qualify, individuals must meet age and income requirements, which vary by state. CSFP helps reduce food insecurity among older adults and supports their overall well-being.

Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) - A federally funded program that provides free, nutritious meals to children and teens (18 and under) in low-income areas during the summer months when school is out. Administered by the USDA, SFSP helps ensure kids continue to receive healthy food even when they don’t have access to school meals. Meals are served at approved sites such as schools, parks, community centers, libraries, and churches, and no registration or ID is typically required. The program supports children's health, growth, and readiness for the next school year by bridging the summer nutrition gap.

Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) - A federal program that provides low-income seniors with coupons to purchase fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables, herbs, and honey from approved farmers’ markets, roadside stands, and community-supported agriculture programs. Administered by the USDA, SFMNP aims to improve senior nutrition while supporting local agriculture. Eligible participants are typically 60 years or older and must meet income requirements set by their state. The program runs seasonally and varies by location, helping seniors access healthy food options and stay connected to their communities.