The Emergency Food Assistance Program

The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP)

The Texas Department of Agriculture supports local food banks and food pantries serving the public through the Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP).

The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) actively backs local food banks and pantries through the Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP). This program not only provides essential nourishment to those in need but also supports the nation’s agricultural producers.

TEFAP food is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. TEFAP food may include additional food the food pantry purchases or received through donations. Staff members and volunteers at the site will be available to answer questions and assist with loading food into vehicles.

How to Get Food

Contact a food bank near you to find a site distributing TEFAP food. Use our Find Food Now tool or visit SquareMeals.org/TXFoodBanks to see other participating Texas Food Banks.
Go to the recommended location during their hours of operation and ask to apply for TEFAP.
Meet with a staff member to complete the TEFAP application process.
For the application you will need to provide your name, address, phone number, current public assistance received, and total household income.
Staff will also have information about other food programs you may qualify for.
Food bank staff will provide further instructions for food pick up. TEFAP food is available on a first-come, first-served basis. TEFAP food may include additional food the food pantry purchases or receives through donations. Staff members and volunteers at the site will be available to answer questions and assist with loading food into vehicles if needed.

Your Right to Receive Food

When you get food from a Food Bank partner, you are entitled to basic rights.

You are entitled to receive food and/or meals at no cost.
You are NOT required to participate in a religious event or pay dues as a condition of receiving food.
You will NOT be refused service or discriminated against based on your race, color, age, religion, national origin, disability, gender, sexual orientation, or political affiliation.
You will be treated with respect and dignity at all times.
You are NOT required to show proof of income, identification, citizenship, driver's license, social security card, birth certificate, or any other documentation.
Food bank staff will provide further instructions for food pick up. TEFAP food is available on a first-come, first-served basis. TEFAP food may include additional food the food pantry purchases or receives through donations. Staff members and volunteers at the site will be available to answer questions and assist with loading food into vehicles if needed.

If you feel your rights have been violated, please contact us at 817-857-7100.

What to Expect When Visiting a Food Pantry, Food Distribution or Mobile Food Pantry

When you arrive, the agency representative will ask you to fill out a basic form to show that you live in the area and ask that you declare that you need help with food.

Consider bringing a food cart or several reusable bags to take your food to your final destination. Assistance may be limited. Be sure to ask how often you may visit or use services.

Many of our partners provide additional support services such as help paying for bills, job training, health services and help with transportation. You may be required to provide additional information to the agency to receive help.

The Emergency Food Assistance Program