Access to the food and help you need
All of us need help sometimes. Now, more than ever, the Feeding America network of food banks is here to help you get access to food and other assistance.
If you need help with food today
The Feeding America network of 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries and meal programs serve virtually every community in all 50 states, Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico. Food is available to anyone who needs it without obligation, regardless of circumstance and it is free and confidential.
Your safety remains a top priority for the Feeding America network. As COVID-19 impacts our nation, many food banks, food pantries, and meal programs are making changes to ensure the safety of visitors and the food they serve. A variety of low or no contact options are now available in many areas, including seniors-only hours, drive-through pantries, expanded home delivery services, and more.
Search by zip code or state using the food bank locator, and contact the food bank that serves your area. They will be able to give you information on the free pantries and programs nearest you.
Help for the days ahead
Whether you are here for the first time or have used food assistance before the COVID-19 pandemic, a number of federal programs are available to help make ends meet during difficult times. State and federal programs have expanded to help even more people.
- SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly known as food stamps) currently provides 1 in 7 Americans with help making ends meet. Find out if you are eligible and learn how to access your SNAP benefits. We can connect you with your nearest food bank's application assistance program.
- Child Nutrition Programs provide free healthy meals and snacks to kids while they're out of school. Contact your nearest food bank to see where there are meal sites in your area.
- WIC (Women and Infant Children) programs provide healthy, supplemental food to low-income people who are pregnant and have children ages five and under. Find out if you're eligible and contact your state WIC agency to apply.
Navigating all of these changes to federal programs can be difficult at an already stressful time in your life. We are here to help you make sense of it all. We answered some of the most frequently asked questions about changes to food assistance programs during COVID-19.
Other programs that can help
In addition to SNAP, there are other federal and charitable programs designed to give individuals and families the support they need during difficult times.