The SFMNP is administered by State agencies such as State Department of Agriculture or Aging, and federally recognized Indian Tribal governments. Not all States operate the SFMNP statewide.

The SFMNP serves low-income seniors, generally defined as individuals who are at least 60 years old and who have household incomes of not more than 185 percent of the U.S.Poverty Guidelines (published each year by the Department of Health and Human Services). Some State agencies accept proof of participation or enrollment in another means-tested program, such as the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), for SFMNP eligibility.