ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – A federal resource is ensuring those facing food insecurity don’t have to go hungry.
The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) is available to those 18 and older who meet certain household income requirements, listed below. The program is currently available at the Escanaba Senior Center in partnership with the Menominee Delta Schoolcraft Community Action Agency.
Those eligible can receive nutritious, USDA food once per month on any Tuesday between 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. Delivery is not available.
“I think it’s important anytime, and with the high cost of foods these days, every little bit helps,” said Escanaba Senior Center Administrator Lydia LaPalm. “It will free up money to buy other things that you may more need.”
LaPalm says getting residents who need assistance into the Senior Center is another benefit of the program.
“We’ve been around for 55 years, but it’s good for them to know where the Senior Center is so they can use it for congregate meals, activities,” she said. “We do home heating credits here too, and property tax credits.”
Those interested in receiving food through TEFAP must present their ID and provide their name, address, the number of people in their household, and how they are eligible.
The Emergency Food Assistance Program is also available at the Hermansville Senior Center, and another pantry is scheduled to open in Gladstone this spring.
The Escanaba Senior Center is located inside the Catherine Bonifas Civic Center at 225 North 21st Street. Call (906) 786-8850 with questions.
For more information on TEFAP services available in Delta and Menominee Counties, click here.