Food insecurity is a reality for many Americans, and potentially millions more as the government shutdown threatens SNAP benefits. Local organizations can help.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — According to Feeding America, 47 million people in the United States face food insecurity. With the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) expected to go unfunded on Nov. 1 due to the ongoing government shutdown, its 42 million benefit recipients could feel an even bigger strain.

There is help available. Through donations and community effort, many organizations throughout Jacksonville offer free food assistance.


Feeding Northeast Florida: Mobile food pantries 

The free walk-up mobile food pantries from Feeding Northeast Florida open up at around 10 a.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and continue while supplies last. 

See upcoming dates and locations below:

Deermeadows Baptist Church (9780 Baymeadows Rd, Jacksonville)

Paxon Revival Center (5461 Commonwealth Ave, Jacksonville)

You can find the current monthly schedule provided by Feeding Northeast Florida on its website.


Military Food Farmacy

The City of Jacksonville’s Military Affairs and Veterans Department offers free food giveaways for active duty military families with military IDs.

Upcoming dates and locations are listed below:

NAS Jax Food Farmacy (every 4th Tuesday of the month)

Oct. 28, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.5391 Collins Road, Jacksonville

Mayport Food Farmacy (every 2nd Thursday of the month)

Nov. 13, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.390 Mayport Road, Atlantic Beach


Lutheran Social Services of Northeast Florida

Duval County residents can visit the food pantry at LSS once a month for emergency groceries, but must reserve a spot online in their chosen timeslot.

Monday – Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.4615 Philips Hwy, Jacksonville, FL 32207

LSS also hosts the Jacksonville Humane Society’s pet food bank, and provides it based on availability.


Know your options

Several churches and other organizations throughout Jacksonville also host their own food pantries or offer emergency food services. You can find lists at feedingnefl.org or findhelp.org.