The Emergency Food Assistance Program
The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) is a federal program that provides food assistance to those with low incomes.
What is TEFAP food assistance
- TEFAP provides groceries for about three to five days, to supplement the food provided by food pantries. Amounts vary.
- TEFAP usually provides a variety of meat, dairy, pasta, beans, rice, and canned and fresh fruit and vegetables. This food is received from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and distributed by food pantries.
Who can get TEFAP food assistance
- TEFAP offers food to Wisconsin residents with low incomes.
- See the TEFAP Eligibility Application, F-40059, for eligibility information in English, Spanish, and Hmong. You do not have to bring this form to receive food assistance.
- You can get TEFAP foods and still receive FoodShare, Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP), and regular food pantry foods.
How to get TEFAP food assistance
- Visit a participating food pantry to apply. TEFAP foods are distributed in all Wisconsin counties.
- Contact your regional coordinator (PDF) to find TEFAP locations near you and for more information.
- To find a TEFAP pantry, go to 211 Wisconsin or dial 211 to find the location and hours of a food pantry near you.
- You may appoint a person to pick up food for you.
Grants impacts and outcomes
Read about the Reach and Resiliency Initiative Funding (PDF)
Contact
TEFAP is administered by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services through grants from the USDA. See the USDA nondiscrimination statement.
Questions? Email us at dhstefap@dhs.wisconsin.gov.