(DailyTreasure.com) – If you or someone you know has been in a situation where they did not have the means to purchase food and feed their family, having an emergency food assistance program is essential to keep that family fed until they can get more stable assistance.
This is why the Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) was created back in 1981, and it is still available for those who may be in need of these services. This program is different from other food assistance programs, and there are some qualifications that need to be met first.
What is TEFAP?
Suppose you see the term TEFAP, that refers to the emergency Food Assistance Program designed to offer food stamps to families and applicants in dire situations. Depending on the situation, food stamps are available for these families that do not cost them anything.
The money used to fund this program is funded federally and is awarded to each state based on the need and number of residents living at or below the poverty level. However, This program has some different factors than other food assistance programs.
What Makes TEFAP Different From Other Programs?
The TEFAP is different from other programs offered at the state and federal levels. First, this is not meant to be a long-term program, but rather offer assistance needed temporarily to families who are struggling severely until they can either qualify for a different program that is more long-term or get established and off the need of the TEFAP.
Once the food is purchased by the USDA or donated by large grocery store chains, it is distributed to the various food banks in the community. This allows those individuals who are in dire need to get access to these items until they are able to get SNAP benefits or other assistance programs that take longer to process.
This program is available across the country and does not cost the recipients of the program anything when they visit the local food banks to get the food they need.
Food Readily Available
The biggest difference between this program and others is that food is readily available for families in need. While other programs send out cards and require families to shop for groceries, at least 120 nutritious foods are available.
These foods available come from all the required food groups, and are available in cans, frozen options, and even fresh. It all depends on the family’s needs and the means to store the items. The US Department of Agriculture provides these foods and meet nutritional requirements.
How Do You Qualify for TEFAP?
To qualify for TEFAP, you must visit the local Distributing Agency in your area. These agencies and contacts are listed here for each state so that you can find the closest representative to your location.
In order to be qualified, you must provide income proof that you are living below the current salary requirements in your state. Also, those must be listed if you are currently receiving any other assistance from state or local programs. All of these numbers are based on income and the size of the family that you are applying with.
Elderly citizens on a fixed income and remaining below the poverty level may be eligible immediately. If you are currently receiving prepared meals regularly, then your family may be classified below the poverty level and not required to undergo a means review.
How Do I Apply for TEFAP?
If you believe you are eligible for the TEFAP and need assistance, visit your local state contact today. Most of these individuals are located within the county and have an office with the US Department of Agriculture in some of the more populated areas.
Copyright 2023, DailyTreasure.com
