What activities does CSFP include?
Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) manages CSFP, receiving food and operational funding from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for distribution to 13 CSFP Lead Agencies and 27 counties throughout the state.
While CSFP provides a steady stream of nutritious food, the program is not offered in all counties due to federal funding limits. WSDA typically leverages the current TEFAP distribution system for the distribution of CSFP via food pantries and other food assistance providers.
The food packages provide clients with almost 28 pounds of critically needed food each month. Participants receive real food and not food vouchers. The focus is on nutritional supplementation and provides a variety of fruits, vegetables, healthy juices, dairy, potatoes, cereal, rice, and protein.
While CSFP provides a steady stream of nutritious food, the program is not offered in all counties due to federal funding limits. WSDA typically leverages the current TEFAP distribution system for the distribution of CSFP via food pantries and other food assistance providers.
The food packages provide clients with almost 28 pounds of critically needed food each month. Participants receive real food and not food vouchers. The focus is on nutritional supplementation and provides a variety of fruits, vegetables, healthy juices, dairy, potatoes, cereal, rice, and protein.
How does WSDA contract out CSFP operations?
WSDA contracts with Lead Agencies which are responsible for program operations at the county level. A Lead Agency may be responsible for one or more counties. WSDA is responsible for the selection of CSFP Lead Agencies. As CSFP expands to new areas, WSDA will discuss where the program will be most effective. For more information, contact us.
How is CSFP funded?
Federal funding and food are received from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and re-authorized every 5 years through the Farm Bill. The state applies for the program and its allotted caseload based on available federal funding and state caseload participation levels. The majority of the funds are passed through to Lead Agencies. The food received is based on caseload levels and nutrition package cost per person.
What providers are eligible to participate?
Eligible providers, typically food pantries, apply directly to their Lead Agency for consideration to participate in the program. At a minimum:
- Providers must be a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit or have submitted an application to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requesting tax-exempt status.
- Providers must agree to abide by all applicable federal and state requirements, program policies and procedures, including but not limited to: submit required reports, including monthly inventory, practice nondiscrimination in providing services, and not require participation in religious ceremonies or charge fees for services.