Mammoth AwardsBefore you go hungry, have a look at this long list of coronavirus food assistance options that could save the day.
Many families are struggling to stay fed during the coronavirus pandemic. If you’re one of them, you’ll be happy to know that there are several options for food assistance that could hold you over until you get your finances in order.
Here’s a list of food assistance solutions that are both short and long-term. Try as many as possible so that nutrition is no longer one of your worries.
211
Give 211 a call if your food situation is so bad that you’re near the point of starvation. A quick conversation with a local operator can give you all the info you need to find food today and keep deprivation at bay.
Since 211 offers all types of assistance, don’t forget to ask for help with other issues you’re having, such as housing, paying bills, healthcare, etc.
National Hunger Hotline
Similar to 211, this is a number you can call to find food assistance quickly. The hotline is open on Monday through Friday between 7 am and 10 pm. For help in English, call 866-3-HUNGRY. Spanish speakers should call 877-8-HAMBRE.
State Agencies
Every state has its own agency that handles food assistance programs. Give yours a call to see what’s available in your state. To find your agency, click here.
FoodFinder
This easy-to-use online tool can help you find food pantries in your area. All it takes is entering your zip code to find emergency food assistance within seconds.
Find Meals for Kids Tool
Here’s another handy online tool. Unlike FoodFinder, however, Find Meals for Kids is a tool that specializes in pinpointing nutrition assistance for children.
Use this tool if you want to locate free or reduced-price school breakfasts and lunches in your city. Due to the coronavirus, restrictions have been lessened to give more children access to these free or affordable meals.
Meals on Wheels Search Tool
Kids from low-income households have seen their nutrition suffer since the coronavirus appeared, and so have seniors. With this online tool from Meals on Wheels, you can find senior food assistance in your area by entering your zip code.
Food Stamps
The suggestions listed above can all help you find quick food assistance. What about long-term nutritional help, though? You may need it to avoid emergencies in the future, which is why applying for food stamps (aka SNAP) is a smart move.
With food stamps, you get funds to buy grocery store essentials that can fill your fridge and cupboard. Right now is the best time to apply, too, since many requirements for food stamps have been relaxed. Even better, the benefits have increased in response to the pandemic.
WIC
It’s a must that pregnant women and young children have their nutritional needs met. If you’re pregnant or have young kids, WIC can supply you with formula, baby food, and healthy items at no cost.
