Food Assistance

Emergency Food Assistance Program

More than 550 food pantries and community kitchens across the city can provide free food in an emergency. Call 311 and ask about "emergency food assistance."

General Food Assistance

The WIC program provides food, nutrition education, and referrals to low-income pregnant women, breastfeeding women, infants, and children up to age 5. Call (800) 522-5006 for more information.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides food assistance for low-income New Yorkers. Eligible New Yorkers receive a pre-filled debit card which can be used to purchase food at supermarkets and other locations.

• Apply online or call 718-557-1399 to have an application mailed to you.
  

For additional food assistance resources, visit HRA's page on food assistance. 

Food Pantries

Locations across NYC provide free food to people in need.

• To find a food pantry near you, visit https://foodhelp.nyc.gov/ or call 311 and say "food pantries".
  

Food Assistance for Seniors

If you are age 60 or older, you can participate in food programs run by NYC Department of Aging, including lunch programs at Older Adult Centers, meals delivered to your home, and transportation to major supermarkets.

• Learn more about food assistance for seniors

Grocery Shopping

Farmers markets offer affordable, locally grown vegetables and fruits. There are over one hundred farmers markets located in the five boroughs.

• Use this map to find a farmer’s market near you.

New York City runs the Food Retail to Support Health (FRESH) program to support the construction and maintenance of grocery stores in historically underserved community areas.

• Use this map to find a grocery store near you.