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

How to get TEFAP food assistance

  • Visit a participating food pantry to apply. TEFAP foods are distributed in all Wisconsin counties.
  • To find a TEFAP pantry, go to 211 Wisconsin. You can also 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.

Glossary

 
Last revised September 23, 2024