Food Programs for Seniors
Nutrition assistance programs designed specifically for adults age 60 and older.
Meals on Wheels (Home-Delivered Meals)
Meals on Wheels delivers nutritious meals directly to seniors' homes, typically once or twice daily. This program is ideal for homebound seniors or those who have difficulty preparing meals.
Who Qualifies
- Generally age 60 or older
- Homebound or have difficulty leaving home
- Unable to prepare meals independently
- Some programs have income guidelines; many use sliding fee scales
What You Get
- Hot meals delivered to your door
- Typically includes entree, vegetables, fruit, bread, and milk
- Often includes frozen meals for weekends
- Regular friendly visitor (the delivery volunteer)
- Safety check - volunteers can alert if something seems wrong
How to Apply
Contact your local Area Agency on Aging or Meals on Wheels program directly. Many areas have waiting lists, so apply early.
Congregate Meal Programs (Senior Centers)
Many senior centers and community sites offer free or low-cost meals in a group setting, providing both nutrition and social interaction.
Benefits
- Hot, nutritious meals served at least once daily
- Social interaction and community
- Activities and programs at senior centers
- Usually no income requirements
- Free or suggested donation (typically $2-3)
Where to Find
Look for congregate meal sites at senior centers, churches, community centers, and housing complexes. Call your local Area Agency on Aging for locations.
Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)
CSFP provides monthly food packages to low-income seniors age 60 and older. Packages include nutritious USDA foods like canned fruits and vegetables, juice, cereal, pasta, rice, cheese, and more.
Eligibility
- Must be age 60 or older
- Income at or below 130% of Federal Poverty Level
- Cannot participate in WIC simultaneously
- Live in a state/county that offers CSFP
What's Included
Monthly food package designed to supplement senior diets with items like canned meats, fruits, vegetables, juice, dry beans, pasta, rice, cereal, peanut butter, and shelf-stable milk or cheese.
Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program
This program provides low-income seniors with coupons to purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and honey at farmers markets, roadside stands, and community-supported agriculture programs.
Eligibility
- Age 60 or older
- Income at or below 185% of poverty level
- Available in participating states (not all states offer this program)
Benefits
Typically receive $20-50 in coupons per season to purchase fresh, locally grown produce. Provides access to nutritious foods while supporting local farmers.
SNAP for Seniors
Many seniors qualify for SNAP (food stamps) but don't realize it. Seniors have special considerations that make qualifying easier.
Special Benefits for Seniors
- Higher resource limits ($4,250 vs. $2,750)
- Medical expense deductions (over $35/month)
- Simplified reporting in some states
- Can use benefits for home-delivered meals in some cases
Food Banks and Pantries for Seniors
Many food banks offer special programs for seniors including:
- Senior food boxes: Special monthly boxes designed for senior nutritional needs
- Home delivery: Some pantries deliver to homebound seniors
- Senior shopping hours: Designated times for seniors to avoid crowds
- Mobile pantries: Food trucks that bring food to senior housing
Tip
When calling food banks, specifically ask about senior programs and services. Many have special accommodations for elderly visitors.
Finding Help in Your Area
Area Agency on Aging
Your local Area Agency on Aging can connect you with all available senior nutrition programs. Find yours at eldercare.acl.gov or call 1-800-677-1116.
Dial 211
Call 2-1-1 from any phone for free referrals to senior food programs, meal sites, and other services in your community.
Medicare/Medicaid
Some Medicare Advantage and Medicaid programs now cover meal delivery. Check with your plan.