This is a page for pantries that are part of the USDA, CSFP, and TEFAP Programs!

The USDA, CSFP & TEFAP Programs section provides resources, guidance, and program materials to support agencies participating in federally funded nutrition assistance programs. Here you will find important information related to the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) and The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), including program requirements, eligibility guidelines, forms, training resources, and USDA policy updates. These programs play a vital role in ensuring that nutritious food reaches seniors, families, and individuals experiencing food insecurity across Arkansas. The Arkansas Foodbank is committed to helping agency partners successfully administer these programs while maintaining compliance and providing excellent service to our neighbors.

USDA

USDA Agency Reviews:

In 2026, the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE) is currently conducting its four-year reviews of all USDA agencies.

Please be responsive to ADE representatives during this process. If you have any questions, the Arkansas Foodbank is here to help you.

USDA Agreement Compliance:

If your USDA agreement is not signed by your food pantry and the Arkansas Foodbank, please reach out to agencysupport@arkansasfoodbank.org as soon as possible.

Nutritional Support:

At the time of your TEFAP distribution, you must provide neighbors with access to nutritional information about the USDA foods being distributed. These documents can be found on the USDA website: Household Product Information Sheets

Per the USDA TEFAP manual, printed copies of these materials should be available at distribution sites to meet neighbors’ nutritional needs. A variety of Federal, State, and local resources are available to help you fulfill this requirement.

USDA Food Loss Form Reporting Losses Damaged Food

CSFP

Serving Older Adults with a Monthly Food Package 

The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) works to improve the health of persons with low income who are at least 60 years of age by supplementing their diets with nutritious USDA Foods.  

Interested in Becoming a CSFP Agency? 

If you’re passionate about supporting low-income seniors, consider becoming a CSFP (Commodity Supplemental Food Program) agency. As a CSFP agency, you’ll receive FREE high-quality food to distribute to seniors in need. While seniors must meet eligibility requirements to qualify, the effort to gather this information is well worth it, as it allows you to provide critical support to this vulnerable population. 

The Arkansas Foodbank submits applications for new CSFP programs each September, and USDA notifies us of approved agencies the following April or May. If you’re interested in joining, let us know—we’d love to have you on board! 

If you’re interested in joining, let us know! Click here to email Agency Services.

Civil Rights Training Requirements | Checklist

TEFAP

Strengthening the Nation’s Nutrition Safety Net and Supporting American Agriculture 

The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) is a federal program that helps supplement the diets of people with low income by providing them with emergency food assistance at no cost. 

Interested in Becoming a USDA TEFAP Agency? 

We’re looking to expand our network of agencies participating in the USDA TEFAP program. As a TEFAP agency, you’ll receive FREE high-quality food to distribute to neighbors in need. While there are eligibility requirements for neighbors to qualify for this food, the extra effort to gather this information is well worth it—allowing you to provide families with even more support. 

If you’re interested in joining, let us know! Click here to email Agency Services. 

Civil Rights Training Requirements | Checklist | TEFAP- Written Notice of Beneficiary Rights- Template (ADE) | TEFAP-and-CSFP-Beneficiary-Referral-Request-form