Government Surplus Food

There are many government programs that utilize surplus food to feed people in need.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) acquires agricultural commodities through price support programs, surplus removal, and direct purchases from national markets.
These commodities are distributed through the USDA to the states and sometimes directly to local programs that provide food to people in need.
In Connecticut, eligible schools, charitable institutions, summer camps, and agencies that operate surplus food distribution programs apply directly to the USDA for surplus foods.
The Connecticut Department of Social Services administers The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) which distributes surplus foods to food banks, which, in turn, give food to member soup kitchens, homeless shelters, and food pantries that provide food to individuals and households.

Who is Eligible for Surplus Food?

Connecticut agencies serving specific groups (such as nursing homes serving the elderly, or day care centers serving preschool children)
Connecticut homeless shelters, soup kitchens, and food pantries

How to Find Providers in Connecticut’s Community Resources Database:
Search by service name:
Commodity Supplemental Food Program

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PREPARED BY: 211/mb
CONTENT LAST REVIEWED: June2023