Emergency
Food Assistance Program
The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) is a federal food distribution program that supports food banks, food pantries, soup kitchens, and other emergency feeding organizations serving low-income Americans. Federal assistance takes the formof federally purchased commodities—including fruits, vegetables, meats, and grains—and funding for administrative costs. Food aid and funds are distributed to states using astatutory formula that takes into account poverty and unemployment rates. TEFAP is administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service (USDA-FNS).
Flow of Foods and Funds through TEFAP
Food Pantry
Program Details
Households may utilize the food pantry once every 30 days. Food boxes typically provide 2-4 days worth of food. Garden seeds may also be available in the springtime (limited availability). Food boxes vary based on donations and location.
​
To receive a food box, clients must qualify and be enrolled in our CSBG program. Clients will be asked for demographic information about themselves and each member of their household. No ID or income verification is required to receive a food box.
USDA Commodities are staple pantry items that are provided through our TEFAP program. Commodities are available once per month at multiple distribution sites in the Treasure Valley. To get connected with free and reduced-cost resources near you visit https://findhelpidaho.org
​
To receive commodities, clients must qualify and be enrolled in our TEFAP program. Clients will be asked for demographic information about themselves and each member of their household and must sign an eligibility form. No ID or income verification is required to receive commodities.
​
Call us at 888-618-5459 or e-mail us at capsupport@wicap.org for more information
​
recipient agencies
USDA
-
purchase commodities
-
allocates aids to states
-
overseas states
​
âž™
​
State Agencies
​
-
set eligibility rules
-
oversee red plent agencies
-
may delegate some responsibilities
âž™
Food banks
​
-
distribute food to local organizations
âžš
âž™
soup kitchens
food pantries
➘
other
example (shelters)
Income Qualifications
