The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) in North Carolina is an important resource for people who need help getting food. North Carolina—with its mix of big cities like Charlotte and Raleigh and rural areas in the mountains and along the coast—has many people with different needs when it comes to food. TEFAP in North Carolina, managed by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, plays a key role in making sure that nutritious food reaches those who might not have enough.

TEFAP in North Carolina works through a network of local organizations, including food banks and community pantries. These groups are really important for getting the food out to people. The program receives federal money to buy a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy products. These foods are chosen to help people eat a balanced diet. This is especially important in North Carolina, where some populations have a harder time getting good food because of where they live or how much money they make.

Eligibility Requirements

If you're in North Carolina and need help accessing food, The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) may be able to help. In order to receive this aid, there are certain eligibility requirements you have to meet. Here’s what you need to know about qualifying for TEFAP in North Carolina:

Income Guidelines: The main thing TEFAP looks at is your household income. Your income needs to be at or below certain levels that are based on the Federal Poverty Guidelines, typically 185%. These levels are updated each year, so it's a good idea to check the latest information to see if your income qualifies.

Other Assistance Programs: If you're already getting benefits from other government programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), you might automatically qualify for TEFAP. This is because participating in these programs typically means your income is within the TEFAP limits.

Residency in North Carolina: You need to be living in North Carolina to get TEFAP help in the state. There aren’t strict rules about how long you've been living there, so even new residents can receive food assistance.

Self-Declaration of Need: In some cases, just telling the food distribution center that you need help might be enough to qualify for TEFAP benefits.

To see if you qualify and to start getting food assistance, your best bet is to contact a local food bank or distribution agency in North Carolina. These organizations will guide you through the process and help you get the food assistance you need.

Types of Food Offered

The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) in North Carolina provides a variety of foods to help people with different nutritional needs, ensuring a selection of foods that contribute to a healthy and balanced diet. Here are some of the food items you might find through TEFAP in North Carolina:

Canned and Fresh Fruits: TEFAP offers both canned fruits, like pineapple and mandarin oranges. When available, fresh fruits may also be provided. This helps ensure that diets are rich in vitamins.

Whole Wheat Bread and Tortillas: These are great sources of fiber, and offer more nutritional value compared to their white flour counterparts, making them a healthy choice for meals.

Canned Seafood and Beans: Options like canned tuna, salmon, or kidney beans are included, offering high protein content and versatility in meal preparation.

Yogurt and Eggs: These are sources of high-quality protein and other vital nutrients, playing a key role in a balanced diet.

Canned Tomatoes and Vegetables: Different types of canned vegetables, including tomatoes, provide important vitamins and minerals, and are useful in various recipes.

Rice and Pasta: Brown rice and whole grain pasta are often available, providing energy and acting as a base for a variety of dishes.

The types of food provided by TEFAP in North Carolina may vary based on availability and seasonality. However, the program consistently aims to offer a diverse range of nutritious options. This variety not only addresses immediate food needs, but also promotes healthier eating habits among recipients, ensuring that those who rely on TEFAP in North Carolina have access to food choices that support their overall well-being.

The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) Application Instructions

If you're in North Carolina and looking for food assistance, The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) is available to help. Here’s how you can access TEFAP services in North Carolina:

Find a Local TEFAP Agency: Your first step is to locate a TEFAP distribution center, like a local food bank or pantry. These agencies are spread throughout North Carolina.

Contact the Agency: Reach out to the agency you found. You can call them, send an email, or visit their website for more information. Many of these agencies also welcome in-person visits, so you can walk in and ask for assistance.

Learn About Eligibility: The agency staff will explain the eligibility criteria for TEFAP. In North Carolina, this usually involves income guidelines based on the Federal Poverty Guidelines. If you’re already part of other assistance programs like SNAP, this might automatically qualify you for TEFAP.

Begin Receiving Assistance: Once your eligibility is confirmed, the agency will guide you on how to start receiving food assistance. They’ll provide information about the types of food available and the distribution schedule.

The people at TEFAP agencies in North Carolina are available to help you through each step. If you have any questions or need further information, don’t hesitate to ask. Their goal is to make sure that you can easily access the food assistance you need, supporting you in times of hardship.

North TEFAP Office

PO Box 659
Butner, NC 27509
United States