There are two ways to get free food quickly: get groceries from a food pantry, or a cooked meal from a community kitchen. Find the closest food pantries and community kitchens by using the Get Food NYC map.
- For urgent food and hunger needs, call 311 and ask for the Emergency Food Assistance Program. You'll be provided with hours of operation and directions to the nearest food pantries and community kitchens.
- Everyone is eligible for emergency food assistance, regardless of immigration status or how much money you have.
- Food pantries and community kitchens exist in all five boroughs
- If you often need help buying food, use ACCESS NYC to see if you're eligible for SNAP (food stamps) and other benefits.
- Some locations offer kosher food.
Who is eligible
Everyone is eligible for emergency food assistance, regardless of immigration status or how much money you have.
How to get help
- Visit the GetFoodNYC map to find free food locations.
- Call the Emergency Food Hotline at 866-888-8777 or 311 for 24/7 information on locations and hours.
Other Food Programs
Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
NYS Department of Health (NYS DOH)
Healthy food for families
Free healthy food, counseling about healthy eating, breastfeeding support, and referrals for women, infants, and children under five.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
NYC Human Resources Administration (HRA)
Money to buy food
SNAP benefits can help you feed your family with fresh and healthy groceries.
SchoolFood
NYC Department of Education (DOE)
Free school breakfast and lunch
NYC students can enjoy free breakfast and lunch every school day.
Updated March 25, 2022