Food help in Minnesota
The short answer
For food today, dial 211 and ask for the closest food shelf. For monthly help, apply for SNAP at MNbenefits. A SNAP Outreach specialist at MNFoodHelper can help you apply.
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: 211unitedway.org
Apply for SNAP
- Online at MNbenefits.
- On paper at your county or Tribal Nation human services office.
- Help applying: a SNAP Outreach specialist at MNFoodHelper.
- After you apply, you do an interview with your county or Tribal Nation office, in person or by phone.
Official page: dcyf.mn.gov/snap
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
Your EBT card works like a debit card. Benefits load each month for groceries at authorized stores, farmers markets and online retailers.
Official pages: dcyf.mn.gov/snap, dcyf.mn.gov/ebt-card
WIC
The Minnesota Department of Health runs WIC for pregnant women, new moms, babies and young children.
Official page: health.state.mn.us/people/wic
More help in Minnesota
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.