Tips / Help and programs
Food assistance programs
If money is tight, there is help, and using it is what these programs are for. Here is where to start.
What to do
- SNAP
- The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program helps eligible low-income households buy groceries. You apply through your state agency.
- WIC
- WIC provides healthy foods, nutrition education and support for eligible pregnant and postpartum people, infants, and children under 5.
- School meals
- Many children qualify for free or reduced-price school breakfast and lunch. Ask your school district.
- Food banks and pantries
- Local food pantries provide free groceries. Feeding America's food bank locator and 211 can help you find one.
Ask yourself
- Have we checked whether we qualify for SNAP or WIC?
- Does our school district offer free meals?
Helpful resources
- USDA SNAP state directory
- Find your state's SNAP office at fns.usda.gov/snap.
- 211
- Call or text 211, or visit 211.org, to find local food help.
- Feeding America
- Food bank locator at feedingamerica.org.
General information for US households. For food safety, follow FoodSafety.gov and USDA guidance. The Penny Stretcher isn't paid by any store, brand or organization mentioned here.