Things are about to get a lot harder for the 141,000 D.C. residents who receive food aid from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, as benefits will expire Nov. 1 amid the government shutdown. With more than 1.6 million people in the DMV experiencing food insecurity, many of our neighbors will need extra help.
Where to find food assistance and/or support neighbors in need ⬇️
NW Community Food
Located in Van Ness, this food bank doesn’t require any documentation. Distribution happens on Sundays from 1 - 3 p.m. If you want to donate food and other items, they put out a weekly list of everything they need or you can visit their Amazon wishlist.
World Central Kitchen
World Central Kitchen has been providing meals to federal employees and their families at pop-up locations around the city. You can check the meal distribution schedule here. You can always support their work in D.C. and around the world by donating.
Martha's Table
Martha’s Table operates two free food markets in Columbia Heights and Barry Farm every weekday. Volunteers can help out in a variety of ways from tabling at the market to delivering meals. Or donate here.
Capital Area Food Bank
This food bank is holding additional food distributions in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia to help support federal workers and contractors. Check the distribution schedule here. Help them out by donating food, money, or volunteering your time.
Arlington Food Assistance Center
Open to Arlington residents only, this food bank distributes food at their Shirlington headquarters every day but Sunday as well as several other locations. Volunteers help bag, sort, and distribute the food. They are specifically looking for people to help pack home deliveries!
Bread For the City
This pantry is opening its doors to furloughed workers and impacted federal contractors for the rest of the shutdown. They have two locations — Shaw and Anacostia — that are both open every Monday through Thursday. They also have free farmers markets on select Fridays. Donate or volunteer for a shift.
More Free Food Resources
For more spots offering food assistance in your neighborhood, check out this free food resources map!
