We don’t have to tell you that things are getting more expensive in metro Atlanta and Georgia in general.

If you’re an older adult in Atlanta looking for senior food assistance, there are several programs you can tap into depending on your needs and eligibility.

Here’s how to apply for some key options available as of March 2025:

Georgia Senior SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)

This program simplifies the SNAP application process for seniors aged 60+ with low income, helping you buy groceries with an EBT card.

  • How to Apply:
    1. Online: Visit Georgia Gateway at gateway.ga.gov. Create an account or log in, then fill out the application. It’s available Monday-Friday, 5 a.m. to midnight, except holidays.
    2. By Phone: Call the DFCS Customer Contact Center at (877) 423-4746 to apply over the phone. You’ll need to provide your name, address, and household details.
    3. By Mail: Download Form 508 (Food Stamp/Medicaid/TANF Renewal Form) from dfcs.georgia.gov, complete it, and mail it to Georgia Senior SNAP, P.O. Box 450149, Atlanta, GA 31145-0149, or fax it to (678) 717-5585.
    4. In Person: Take your completed application to your local Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS) office. Find the nearest one at dfcs.georgia.gov/locations.
  • What You’ll Need: Proof of income (like Social Security or retirement benefits), resources, rent/mortgage costs, and utility bills. After applying, expect a phone or in-person interview with a DFCS case manager.
  • Eligibility Tip: You qualify if your household is all 60+, not working, on a fixed income, and meets income limits (generally below 165% of the poverty line).

Atlanta Community Food Bank Assistance

The Atlanta Community Food Bank partners with Georgia DFCS to help seniors apply for SNAP and find local food pantries.

  • How to Apply:
    1. SNAP Help: Call (678) 553-5917 for English/Spanish assistance or schedule an appointment at acfb.org to apply in person at 3400 N Desert Dr, East Point, GA 30344. A Benefits Coordinator will guide you through the Georgia Gateway process.
    2. Find a Pantry: Use their online tool at acfb.org/find-help or text “FINDFOOD” (or “COMIDA” for Spanish) to (888) 976-2232 for pantry locations—no application needed for immediate food aid.
  • What You’ll Need: For SNAP, bring income and expense docs; for pantries, just show up (some may ask for ID or proof of residency).

Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)

This federal program provides monthly food boxes to low-income seniors 60+ via local agencies like the Atlanta Community Food Bank.

  • How to Apply: Contact the Atlanta Community Food Bank at (404) 892-9822 or visit acfb.org to connect with CSFP distribution sites in counties like Fulton, DeKalb, or Gwinnett.
  • What You’ll Need: Proof of age (60+), income, and residency. Availability varies by county, so call to confirm.

How To Get Food Assistance: Tips

  • Start Early: Processing times vary—SNAP can take 30 days (or 7 for expedited cases), so apply ASAP.
  • Need Help?: The Latin American Association offers bilingual support at (404) 638-1839.
  • Check Status: For SNAP, log into Georgia Gateway or call (877) 423-4746.

Which program sounds like the best fit for you? I can walk you through any of these in more detail!