Food help in Louisiana
The short answer
For food today, dial 211. For monthly help, apply for SNAP online, by phone at 888 524 3578, or at an LDH parish office. Find a WIC clinic near you on the Louisiana WIC clinic finder.
Need help tonight?
Food today
Dial 211 and say "I need food today" with your city or ZIP. Ask for pantries and hot meals open today, what to bring, and whether they deliver.
Official page: louisiana211.org
Apply for SNAP
- Online through the LDH self service portal.
- By phone: 888 524 3578 (888 LAHelp U).
- On paper: mail to LDH Economic Stability, PO Box 260031, Baton Rouge, LA 70826, fax to 225 663 3164, or drop off at a local office.
- After you apply, LDH usually calls you for a phone interview, so give a phone number that works.
Official page: ldh.la.gov/page/snap-eligibility-application
What SNAP can and can't buy
The USDA says SNAP can buy foods like fruits and vegetables, meat, fish, dairy, bread, cereal, snacks and seeds or plants that grow food. It can't buy alcohol, tobacco, vitamins or medicine, hot foods, pet food, or household and hygiene items.
Official page: fns.usda.gov/snap/eligible-food-items
Your EBT card
LDH has an EBT page. For questions, call 888 524 3578.
Official pages: ldh.la.gov/page/snap-eligibility-application, ldh.la.gov/page/electronic-benefits-transfer-ebt
WIC
Find your local WIC clinic by location. Many are at parish health units.
Official page: louisianawic.org/locations/find-a-clinic
More help in Louisiana
Sources last checked October 27, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it.
Nothing here is a promise of a bed, money or a spot in any program. Each place decides who it can serve. You choose what feels right for you.