Food

Please note. This guide shares general information only. It is not legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Laws vary by state and city. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed professional.

Hi friend. Everyone deserves a good meal, and nobody should have to go hungry. If money for food is tight, there is help in Arizona, from monthly grocery money to food banks and hot meals.

Apply for Nutrition Assistance on Health-e-Arizona Plus (HEAplus), and dial 211 or use the Arizona Food Bank Network map to find food near you today.

A few things to know

• You choose. Use what feels right for you and skip anything that doesn't.
• Each place decides who it can serve. We share what each place says it offers and how to reach it. We can't promise a bed, money or a spot in any program.
• Hours and details change. Call ahead when you can.

Where can I get food today?

Dial 211, or use the Arizona Food Bank Network's map to find a pantry or meal near you. In Phoenix, St.

Mary's Food Bank serves the area. In the East Valley, there's United Food Bank. In southern Arizona, there's the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona.

Sources: https://www.azfoodbanks.org/

What is Nutrition Assistance (SNAP)?

Nutrition Assistance is Arizona's name for SNAP. People who qualify get money for groceries each month on an EBT card.

You can apply on Health-e-Arizona Plus, along with Cash Assistance and AHCCCS.

Some people who are 60 or older, have a disability or are homeless may also use the Restaurant Meals Program, to buy hot meals at some restaurants with their EBT card.

For questions, call DES at 855.432.7587.

Sources: https://des.az.gov/services/basic-needs/food/nutrition-assistance https://des.az.gov/contact-us

What is WIC?

Arizona WIC helps women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or recently had a baby, and children under 5, in families who qualify. It offers healthy food, nutrition help and breastfeeding support.

Call 800.252.5942 to learn more.

Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.azdhs.gov/prevention/azwic/index.php

What should I know about food banks and pantries?

• Pantries are run by churches, nonprofits and community groups. Each one sets its own hours and rules.
• Some ask for an ID or proof of address. Many don't. Ask when you call.
• Bring bags or a box if you can.
• If you don't have a kitchen, ask for foods that don't need cooking.

BUNKLY TIP

Ask about delivery

Some food banks have programs for seniors or people who can't get out. Ask if they can help bring food to you.

How can I make food last?

• Plan a few simple meals around what you have.
• Rice, beans, oats and canned foods go a long way.
• Freeze bread or leftovers if you can.
• Keep water close, especially in the heat.

What about meals for kids?

Many schools in Arizona serve breakfast and lunch, and some summer sites serve meals to kids and teens when school is out. Ask your child's school how meals work, and ask 211 about summer meal sites near you.

BUNKLY TIP

Every bit helps

Using a food pantry so you can pay rent is a smart choice, not a failure. That's what they're there for.

Questions people ask a lot

How do I make the most of each call?

Calling for help can feel like a lot. A little planning makes each call easier, and you'll get further, faster.

• Call early in the day if you can. It leaves time to follow up the same day.
• Have a pen, paper and your papers close by before you call.
• Say what you need in one or two sentences first. Then answer their questions.
• Ask, "Is there anything else I should apply for?" One call can open more doors.
• Before you hang up, ask who you talked to and what happens next.
• Write it all down in your call log at the back of this guide.

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Keep going, friend

If one place can't help, ask them who can. Each call gets you closer.

What if I'm told no, or put on a waitlist?

A no from one place isn't a no from everyone. Programs have different rules, funds and space, and things change from week to week.

• Ask why. Knowing the reason helps you know what to try next.
• Ask, "Who else could help with this?" Write down every name and number they share.
• If you're on a waitlist, ask how long it usually takes and how you'll hear from them. Ask how often you should check in.
• Keep your phone number and address up to date with every program, so you don't miss a call or letter.
• If a state agency turns you down, read the letter right away. It explains how to ask for a review. Call legal aid if you want help.
• Dial 211, or search 211arizona.org any time, to look for other options near you.

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You're doing great

Asking for help, and asking again, takes strength. I'm cheering you on every step of the way.

Who can I call in my county?

Here is help that works across Arizona, then local help in Maricopa County (Phoenix) and Pima County (Tucson), then help for other counties. Call ahead for hours.

Federal and national help

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

Arizona

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

Maricopa County (Phoenix)

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

Pima County (Tucson)

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

Other counties (call your Community Action Agency)

Every Arizona county has a Community Action Agency that can help with utility bills, rent, deposits and emergency shelter when funds allow. If you don't live in Maricopa or Pima County, start here. Phone lines get busy, so keep trying, or dial 211.

Other local groups may also help.

My food plan

Fill this in with a pen, or snap a photo and keep it on your phone. You've got this!

Key numbers to keep

BUNKLY TIP

You're doing the right thing

Asking for help is a strong thing to do, my friend. You don't need to have it all figured out before you call. Take it one step at a time, and call again tomorrow if you need to.

About this guide

Made by the Bunklow team. No sign up, no paywall, no cost. Please share it with anyone who could use it. Bunklow does not run these programs and cannot speak for them. We list what each place says it offers and how to reach it, and you decide what to use. This is not a full list of every place that can help. Every source was checked on October 22, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it. We are always happy to hear from you!

Please note. This guide shares general information only. It is not legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Laws vary by state and city. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed professional.

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Last updated October 22, 2026