Federal Programs Toolkit

The USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) works to increase food security and reduce hunger by providing children and people with low incomes access to food, a healthy diet, and nutrition education—while also supporting American agriculture.

FNS administers 16 federal nutrition assistance programs, including WIC, SNAP, and school meal programs.

Programs Supported by Second Harvest

The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP)

TEFAP provides USDA foods to Food Banks, which are then distributed to local partner agencies like pantries and meal programs.

Why it matters:

Supplies essential nutritious food inventory at no cost
Helps agencies serve neighbors more consistently

SNAP Outreach (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)

SNAP provides monthly financial assistance for groceries to eligible individuals and families.

How partners can help:

Refer neighbors for SNAP assistance
Host outreach or enrollment events
Share application resources

Become a SNAP Partner. We conduct SNAP training and resources for interested partners.

Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)

CSFP provides monthly food boxes to older adults (60+) with incomes at or below 130% of the federal poverty level.

Local details:

Available in Davidson County
Supports older adults with nutritious foods
Enrollment is open

Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP)

CACFP provides reimbursement for meals and snacks served to children and adults in care settings, including afterschool programs.

Why it matters:

Helps offset meal costs for programs serving children
Supports consistent access to nutritious meals

Summer Food Service Program (SFSP)

SFSP helps ensure children continue to receive free meals when school is not in session.

How partners can help:

Promote local SFSP meal sites through signage, newsletters, or social media
Help connect families to nearby SFSP locations