TEFAP – The Emergency Food Assistance Program
The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) is funded entirely by the United States Department of Agriculture
- Agency
- Mississippi Department of Human Services
- Type
- Federal Program
- Phone
- 1-800-948-3050, 1-601-359-4419
- Application Period
- Income Limit
The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) is funded entirely by the United States Department of Agriculture. Commodities are stored at the Mississippi Food Network in Jackson and the Twelve Baskets Food Bank in Biloxi. The commodities are distributed through food pantries, soup kitchens, and homeless shelters throughout the state.
The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) is funded entirely by the United States Department of Agriculture. Commodities are stored at the Mississippi Food Network in Jackson and the Twelve Baskets Food Bank in Biloxi. The commodities are distributed through food pantries, soup kitchens, and homeless shelters throughout the state.
Images & PDFs
Food Policy in Mississippi: Clinic Stories
A resource detailing interventions like nutrition counseling, meal deliveries, and pantry stocking to support those in need in Mississippi.
View Full ImageHealthy Incentives for Healthier Eating Infographic
An infographic by the USDA explaining healthy incentives to improve nutrition through SNAP benefits. It outlines how spending increases purchasing power for healthier foods.
View Full ImageRFA TEFAP Reach and Resiliency Grants
A detailed document describing the application process and eligibility for the Reach and Resiliency Grants under the TEFAP program. It aims to educate about the grants available to support food assistance programs.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
Economic Analysis of TEFAP Participation in Low-Income Communities
1/10/2023 | Coverage: national
This economic analysis provides data on how TEFAP helps stabilize local economies by increasing food security and purchasing power.
Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture
Coverage Area: national
Food Insecurity and the Role of Federal Programs
3/5/2023 | Coverage: national
This comprehensive report assesses the impact of various federal programs, including TEFAP, on food insecurity levels in the U.S.
Source: Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
Coverage Area: national
Stigma and Assistance: The Role of TEFAP in Reducing Barriers
8/20/2021 | Coverage: national
This report highlights how TEFAP reduces stigma around receiving food assistance and fosters a more inclusive community environment.
Source: National Nonprofits Coalition
Coverage Area: national
The Impact of TEFAP on Food Security in Mississippi
5/15/2022 | Coverage: state
This report examines the effects of TEFAP in Mississippi, focusing on its role in alleviating food insecurity among low-income families.
Source: Mississippi Department of Human Services
Coverage Area: state
Program Timeline
CARES Act Funding
3/27/2020The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act included significant funding for TEFAP to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Farm Bill Update
5/20/2014The Agricultural Act of 2014 updated provisions of TEFAP, ensuring more food assistance resources were allocated.
TEFAP Food Assistance Reauthorization
6/18/2008TEFAP was reauthorized and funding was increased to address rising food insecurity during the economic crisis.
TEFAP Established
9/8/1983The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) was created to provide food assistance to low-income households.
FAQ
To apply for TEFAP assistance, individuals can contact their local food bank or the Mississippi Department of Human Services. The application process may vary slightly by location, but typically requires an in-person visit or a phone call to obtain information on available services and application procedures.
If you're looking to apply for TEFAP, consider the following action items:
- Find your local food bank using the MDHS website.
- Contact the food bank to inquire about application procedures.
- Prepare necessary documents such as proof of income and residency.
By following these steps, you can efficiently apply for TEFAP assistance.
TEFAP, or The Emergency Food Assistance Program, is a federal program that provides food assistance to low-income individuals and families. In Mississippi, TEFAP is administered by the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) in collaboration with local food banks. It aims to alleviate hunger and improve nutrition among low-income households by distributing USDA commodities.
Reference: https://www.fns.usda.gov/tefap/what-tefap, https://mdhs.ms.gov/food-assistance/
Eligibility for TEFAP is determined by income and household size. Households must meet the income guidelines set by the USDA, which are typically at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. Additionally, applicants must be residents of Mississippi and may be required to provide documentation of income and residency.
To determine if you are eligible for TEFAP, please check the following items:
- Verify your household income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty level.
- Confirm that you are a resident of Mississippi.
- Gather documentation to support your income and residency claims.
If you meet all these criteria, you may qualify for TEFAP assistance.
Reference: https://www.fns.usda.gov/wic/income-guidelines, https://mdhs.ms.gov/tefap-eligibility/
