Senior Food Programs Near You

Nutrition programs specifically designed for adults age 60 and older. Home-delivered meals, senior food boxes, and congregate meal sites.

-

Senior Programs

-

Open Now

-

States Covered

What Are Senior Food Programs?

Senior food programs are specialized nutrition services designed specifically for adults age 60 and older. These programs recognize that seniors face unique challenges including fixed incomes, mobility limitations, chronic health conditions, and social isolation. Senior nutrition programs aim to improve health, prevent malnutrition, and reduce hunger among older adults.

The largest senior nutrition program is funded by the Older Americans Act (OAA) and includes both home-delivered meals (commonly known as Meals on Wheels) and congregate meal programs served at senior centers and community sites. These programs serve nutritionally balanced meals that meet one-third of the recommended daily allowance for key nutrients.

Additional programs include the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP), which provides monthly food boxes with items like cereal, peanut butter, canned fruits and vegetables, and shelf-stable milk. Many senior centers also host monthly food distributions, senior farmers' market programs, and nutrition education classes tailored to older adults.

According to Feeding America, more than 5 million seniors face food insecurity in the United States. Senior nutrition programs serve over 900,000 home-delivered meals and 1 million congregate meals every day across the country, helping older adults maintain independence, health, and dignity.

Program Types

  • Home-Delivered Meals (Meals on Wheels)
  • Congregate Meals at senior centers
  • Senior Food Boxes (CSFP)
  • Senior Pantries
  • Senior Farmers' Market vouchers

Filter by State

Who Qualifies for Senior Food Programs?

Age Requirements

Most senior nutrition programs are available to adults age 60 and older. Spouses of eligible seniors can also participate, regardless of their age. Adults under 60 with disabilities may qualify for some programs. There is no income requirement for Older Americans Act programs - if you're 60+, you qualify.

Home-Delivered Meals Eligibility

Home-delivered meal programs (Meals on Wheels) serve seniors who are homebound - meaning you have difficulty leaving home due to illness, disability, or frailty. You don't need to be completely bedridden; difficulty shopping and cooking also qualifies you. Caregiver availability and nutrition risk are considered.

Congregate Meal Eligibility

Congregate meal programs served at senior centers are open to all adults 60+ who can travel to the site. These meals provide both nutrition and social connection. No reservations typically required, though some sites request advance notice. Suggested donations are often requested but never required.

CSFP Food Boxes

The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) serves low-income seniors age 60+. Income limits apply: your household income must be at or below 130% of the federal poverty level. You'll need to provide proof of age, residency, and income to enroll. Monthly food boxes are provided at no cost.

How to Access Senior Food Programs

1

Find a Program

Use our search tool to find senior nutrition programs near you. Filter by program type and location.

2

Contact the Program

Call ahead to verify eligibility, hours, and enrollment process. Ask what documentation you need to bring.

3

Complete Enrollment

Fill out a simple application. Bring proof of age (ID or birth certificate) and income documentation if required.

4

Start Receiving Meals

Once enrolled, you'll begin receiving meals according to the program schedule. Home delivery or pick-up arrangements will be confirmed.

National Resources: Call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 to find senior nutrition programs in your area, or visit eldercare.acl.gov.

Senior Programs Near You

Loading senior programs...

Loading...

Loading senior programs...

Frequently Asked Questions

Most senior nutrition programs, including Older Americans Act programs and CSFP, serve adults age 60 and older. Spouses of eligible seniors can participate regardless of age. Adults under 60 with disabilities may qualify for home-delivered meals and other services in some areas - contact your local program to inquire.

Older Americans Act nutrition programs (home-delivered and congregate meals) are free, though voluntary donations are welcome. Programs often suggest a donation of $3-$5 per meal, but you will never be denied service if you cannot donate. CSFP food boxes are completely free for those who meet income guidelines.

Contact your local Meals on Wheels provider or Area Agency on Aging to request an application. A staff member will assess your needs, typically through a phone or in-home interview. They'll determine if you're homebound and evaluate your nutrition risk. If approved, meal delivery will begin shortly after, usually within a week or two.

Yes! You can participate in multiple programs simultaneously. For example, you can receive home-delivered meals from Meals on Wheels AND get a monthly CSFP food box. You can also receive SNAP benefits (food stamps) while participating in senior nutrition programs. These programs complement each other to ensure adequate nutrition.

Senior nutrition programs provide well-balanced meals designed to meet one-third of the recommended daily allowance for key nutrients. Meals typically include a protein (meat, fish, or beans), whole grains, vegetables, fruit, and milk. Many programs accommodate special diets (diabetic, low-sodium, pureed) and dietary restrictions. Meals are developed with input from registered dietitians.

This varies by program. Some home-delivered meal programs deliver hot meals daily, Monday through Friday. Others deliver frozen meals once or twice a week that you can heat up. Congregate meal sites typically serve lunch 5 days a week. CSFP food boxes are distributed monthly. Your local program will explain their specific delivery schedule.