With the ongoing government shutdown affecting federal nutrition programs, many San Diego families are struggling to put food on the table.

Local organizations are stepping in to help by offering groceries and prepared meals at no cost to households, military families and older adults who may be feeling the impact of missing paychecks or missing benefits from SNAP, known in California as CalFresh.

Where to find food in San Diego County?

Programs offer different assistance, depending on each individual’s situation. Here’s a quick guide to find reliable food assistance in San Diego.

Households affected by missed paychecks or CalFresh benefits:

San Diego Food Bank: Families can visit any EFAP (Emergency Food Assistance Program) listed on the GPS Food Locator Map for no-cost food assistance. To find the closest distribution, type in your zip code and select the days that best fit your schedule.

Feeding San Diego: Offers food distributions across the county, including produce and pantry staples. Find locations and times at Feeding San Diego’s website.

211 San Diego: By calling 2-1-1, residents can be connected with the right service for them. Use their food assistance tool to be connected with distribution resources near you.

Military families

Armed Services YMCA: Provides food distributions, diapers and household items to active-duty families.

Feeding San Diego partners with organizations that serve active-duty military members, veterans, and their families.

211 San Diego: By calling 2-1-1, residents can be connected with the right service for them. Use their food assistance tool to be connected with distribution resources near you.

Adults ages 60 and older

San Diego County Senior Nutrition Program: Serves meals at community centers throughout the county. Find a nearby site here.

Meals on Wheels San Diego County: Delivers nutritious meals directly to homes.

Adults 60 and older who are homebound due to illness or disability can ask to have meals delivered to them if they are registered with a County of San Diego nutrition provider that offers this service.

211 San Diego: By calling 2-1-1, residents can be connected with the right service for them. Use their food assistance tool to be connected with distribution resources near you.