Food pantries provide free food for those in need, which could include yourself and your family. In this article, we will discuss basic information you need to know about food pantries.
Pantries are usually set up inside schools, churches, or food trucks (mobile pantries), making this resource easily accessible. Mobile pantries set up the food on tables outside, similar to farmer's markets, and are common in rural communities or areas with limited transportation.
Who Can Get Food From Food Pantries?
Pantries usually set their own rules for who qualifies to receive food. Generally, as long as you need food, you will qualify from a pantry near you. Check this article for more myths and facts about food pantries. Click here to find the closest pantry near you and more detailed information about the pantry.
What Types of Food Can you Get at Food Pantries?
Food pantries provide a wide range of different foods, including fresh fruits and vegetables, dried grains and beans, canned food, and instant meals. Foods commonly provided by food pantries include:
- Produce: Apples, potatoes, yams, onions, celery, broccoli, carrots, produce that is in season (typically donated from farms)
- Canned goods: Green beans, black beans, corn, garbanzos, tomatoes (diced/paste), canned fruit, soups/stews, fish (canned tuna and salmon)
- Instant Meals: Potatoes, mac & cheese, instant noodles, etc.
- Dry Items: Rice, pasta, beans, oats, peanut butter
The great news is there are TONS of healthy and budget-friendly meals you can create with the food from food pantries. To get you started, visit Feeding America’s Recipe page here. You can search by ingredient to explore their large library of recipes. For more information about food assistance program, read this article.