The Pennsylvania Senior Food Box Program, also known as the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP), is a federal program administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. It is designed to improve the health of low-income seniors by supplementing their diets with nutritious, high-quality food. The program is particularly vital for older Pennsylvanians who struggle with food insecurity.
Core Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the PA Senior Food Box Program, individuals must meet three primary criteria: age, income, and state residency.
Age Requirement
To qualify, you must be a Pennsylvania resident who is at least 60 years of age. This age requirement is consistent across the state and is a foundational aspect of the program's purpose to support the nutritional needs of older adults.
Income Guidelines
Eligibility is determined by comparing a household's income to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). The income threshold for the PA Senior Food Box Program is set at or below 150% of the U.S. poverty level. This guideline was updated from 130% to 150% in late 2024, making thousands of additional older Pennsylvanians eligible. Income guidelines are based on household size and are updated annually. Notably, as of April 1, 2021, the program no longer requires proof of income for self-certification in Pennsylvania, simplifying the application process. However, applicants must accurately self-declare their income level.
Here are the approximate income guidelines based on 150% of the FPL for fiscal year 2025-2026, though figures can change:
| Household Size | Annual Income (Max) | Monthly Income (Max) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | ~$23,475 | ~$1,957 |
| 2 | ~$31,725 | ~$2,644 |
| 3 | ~$39,975 | ~$3,332 |
| For each additional family member | +$8,250 | +$688 |
Pennsylvania Residency
You must be a resident of Pennsylvania to receive the benefits of this state-administered program. The boxes are distributed through a network of regional food banks and their local partner agencies, covering all 67 counties.
How to Apply for the Program
Getting started with the PA Senior Food Box Program is straightforward, with a few key steps to follow.
Step 1: Contact a Regional Food Bank
To begin the application process, contact the Department of Agriculture or a local food bank to be directed to the regional food bank serving your specific county. Pennsylvania has 16 regional food banks that distribute the monthly boxes through a network of local agencies, senior centers, and other distribution sites.
Step 2: Complete a Self-Certification Form
Applicants will need to complete a self-declaration of need form. As of April 1, 2021, providing proof of income is no longer required in Pennsylvania, but honest and accurate self-certification is essential. The application form will require personal information, including your date of birth, current address, and household size.
Step 3: Receive Your Monthly Food Box
Once approved, you will begin receiving a monthly box of supplemental food. The boxes are distributed at various locations, including senior centers, senior apartment complexes, and local food pantries. Some regional food banks also offer doorstep delivery for seniors who are homebound. In some areas, there may be a waitlist, so patience during the initial enrollment period is advised.
What’s Included in the Food Box?
The contents of the food box are designed to provide nutrients often lacking in the diets of older adults and consist of shelf-stable and non-perishable items. The specific items can vary, but generally include:
- Shelf-stable milk and juice
- Canned meats, poultry, or fish
- Canned fruits and vegetables
- Peanut butter
- Cereal and oats
- Rice and pasta
- Dried beans or peas
- Cheese
Conclusion
The PA Senior Food Box Program serves as a vital resource for low-income older adults in Pennsylvania, providing monthly food packages to help improve their nutritional health. The key eligibility criteria are being at least 60 years old and having a household income at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level. The process to apply is streamlined, relying on self-certification and distribution through a network of local food banks and agencies. This essential program helps ensure that thousands of seniors do not have to choose between paying for necessities and putting nutritious food on the table.
For more information on the program and specific contact details for your area, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture's Senior Food Box Program page.
