A number of food banks, soup kitchens for hot meals and free emergency food pantries in Polk, Florida distribute groceries to individuals or families who are in some form of an emergency situation.
There are also meals, free bags of food, personal toiletries and household goods for low to moderate income families from food pantries near you.
Distribution centers can include churches, non-profit organizations, community action agencies, and many other local charities as well as non-profits.
Salvation Army Food Pantry
The Salvation Army is dedicated to eliminating food insecurity.
The Salvation Army operates free local food banks around Polk, Florida from almost all of their local social service centers. The charity organization is involved in feeding millions of families each year, with a large percentage of those assisted being children as well as the elderly.
We have located 3 Salvation Army Food Pantry locations in Polk, Florida which provides a wide array of services. We have partnered so you can also check your eligibility.
The Salvation Army - Lakeland, FL
Services provided :
- Character Building Programs
- Christian Education
- Community Recreation Programs
- Day Camp Activities
- Disaster Services
- Food & Nutrition
- Men's Ministries
- Music & Arts Programs
- Women's Ministries
- Worship Services - Children's / Teen
- Worship Services - Church
- Worship Services - Sunday School
- Worship Services - Young Adult
- Worship Services - Youth Ministries
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call (863) 853-2214 to book your appointment.
Address :
2620 Kathleen Rd,
Lakeland, FL 33810.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon:
- Tues:
- Wed:
- Thurs:
- Fri:
- Sat:
- Sun:
Help Residents of Counties:
- Polk
The Salvation Army Family Store & Donation Center
Services provided :
- Drop Box
- Salvation Army Family Store
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call (863) 648-0047 to book your appointment.
Address :
3915 S Florida Ave,
Lakeland, FL 33813.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon:
- Tues:
- Wed:
- Thurs:
- Fri:
- Sat:
- Sun:
Help Residents of Counties:
- Polk
The Salvation Army - Lakeland, FL Community of Hope
Services provided :
- Casework Services
- Day Care
- Emergency Financial Assistance
- Emergency Shelter
- Food & Nutrition
- Food & Nutrition Programs
- Seasonal Services
- Transitional Housing
- Worship Services - Church
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call (863) 940-9696 to book your appointment.
Address :
3800 Kathleen Rd,
Lakeland, FL 33810.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon:
- Tues:
- Wed:
- Thurs:
- Fri:
- Sat:
- Sun:
Help Residents of Counties:
- Polk
Church Food Pantry
A number of churches around Polk, Florida have food pantries for those in their neighborhoods who are in need of food items.
Churches operate with food donations gathered and deliver to the food pantry nearest you by individuals using food drives.
Some churches also deliver food items to elderly who are unable to drive to a nearest community food pantry. Please contact your local church directly.
We have located 11 Church Food Pantry locations in Polk, Florida which provides a wide array of services. We have partnered so you can also check your eligibility.
Church at the Mall
Church at the Mall is a multi-site campus church in Lakeland, FL. Our mission is to glorify God by making disciples who overflow His presence everywhere we go.
At Compassion House we welcome over 200 individuals and families a week to receive food and groceries! More than that, we love to tell our guests about Jesus and the power He has to save them out of any situation! Our lives on earth are temporary, but life after death is eternal. We want to tell our guests that they have the choice of where they spend their eternity!
Each individual is welcome to receive food and clothing once a month. Guests are strongly encouraged to arrive early, as the line forms quickly and we are only able to serve the first 75 individuals/families that arrive. So that we know how many groceries to give you, please bring the Social Security Card of each individual in your household. The amount of groceries you receive will be based upon this number.
Services provided :
- food pantry
- clothing
- spiritual support
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call to book your appointment.
Address :
1010 E Memorial Blvd,
Lakeland, FL 33801.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM EST
- Tues: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM EST
- Wed: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM EST
- Thurs: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM EST
- Fri: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM EST
- Sat: Closed
- Sun: Closed
Help Residents of Counties:
- Polk
Pilgrim Rest Free Will Baptist Church, Inc.
Pilgrim Rest Free Will Baptist Church, Inc. is a Christ centered, Biblically based, Spiritually led church, that meets the needs of the total person.
Our food and clothing ministries offer food and clothing to anyone in need at no charge.
Services provided :
- food pantry
- clothing
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call to book your appointment.
Address :
1047 N Ohio Ave,
Lakeland, FL 33805.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon: 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
- Tues: 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
- Wed: 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
- Thurs: 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
- Fri: 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
- Sat: Closed
- Sun: Closed
Help Residents of Counties:
- Polk
Ward Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church
The Food Pantry is a community outreach ministry of the Cora Jackson Women's Missionary Society. It distributes food to needy families the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month from 10:00 - 11:30 am.
For more information, contact 407-628-1602.
Services provided :
- food pantry
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call (863) 287-6978 to book your appointment.
Address :
2073 US-92,
Winter Haven, FL 33881.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Tues: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Wed: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Thurs: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Fri: Closed
- Sat: Closed
- Sun: Closed
Help Residents of Counties:
- Polk
Lena Vista Baptist Church
Loaves and Fishes Food Ministry gives out hundreds of pounds of food to people who are in need of a helping hand. Food is collected, processed and distributed to those in need without regard to race, ethnic origin, gender or creed. Everyone seeking help must register between 9:30 and 10:00 am Tuesdays. Each family is eligible for help once per month.
For more information, contact 863-967-3692.
Services provided :
- food pantry
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call (863) 967-3692 to book your appointment.
Address :
213 Florida Dr,
Auburndale, FL 33823.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Tues: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Wed: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Thurs: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Fri: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Sat: Closed
- Sun: Closed
Help Residents of Counties:
- Polk
New Horizon Church House Blessed
The church has an onsite food pantry. It can distribute emergency food, groceries, and meals to the needy. Other resources for Polk County families include guidance, referrals and information on such services as clothing or shelters.
Services provided :
- emergency food
- food pantry
- meals
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call to book your appointment.
Address :
114 S 2nd St,
Haines City, FL 33844.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Tues: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Wed: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Thurs: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Fri: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Sat: Closed
- Sun: Closed
Help Residents of Counties:
- Polk
St. John's United Methodist Church
Project Love is a sister ministry of Angels Care Center of Eloise and is a faith-based resource center for all needs other than medical. We offer a food bank, clothes closet, personal, parenting, and spiritual counseling as well as classes in sewing, gardening, nutrition and Bible study.
To be eligible for services from Project Love, people need to:
- Have an income under 200% of Federal poverty level or prove extenuating circumstances, such as fire, eviction, custody issues, etc.
- Have an ID with a picture
- Have a need and desire to better the life of themselves and their family
- Be willing to set goals and follow through on accomplishing them
Call us to apply for services.
Services provided :
- food pantry
- nutrition education
- clothing
- daily life skills
- parenting education
- exercise & fitness
- counseling
- recreation
- spiritual support
- more education
- advocacy & legal aid
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call (863) 280-6947 to book your appointment.
Address :
960 Snively Ave,
Eloise, FL 33880.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon: 08:00 AM - 01:00 PM EST
- Tues: Closed
- Wed: 08:00 AM - 01:00 PM EST
- Thurs: Closed
- Fri: 08:00 AM - 01:00 PM EST
- Sat: Closed
- Sun: Closed
Help Residents of Counties:
- Polk
Harmony Missionary Baptist Church
Harmony Missionary Baptist Church has been servicing the Lakeland community for over one hundred years. We seek to provide a holistic approach to ministry that addresses all aspects of human need.
We provide food, second hand clothing. Aid is offered in a limited quantity. Families can access the pantry once per month.
Services provided :
- emergency food
- food pantry
- clothing
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call to book your appointment.
Address :
1645 N Webster Ave,
Lakeland, FL 33805.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Tues: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Wed: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Thurs: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Fri: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Sat: Closed
- Sun: Closed
Help Residents of Cities:
- Lakeland
Believers' Fellowship Word Of Faith Church
Hands of Mercy Food Pantry distributes groceries to those in need. This service not only helps those in need but also provides wonderful opportunities of ministry. A service is given at 5pm with food distribution at 6pm.
Services provided :
- food pantry
- spiritual support
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call (863) 858-5668 to book your appointment.
Address :
5240 N Socrum Loop Rd,
Lakeland, FL 33809.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Tues: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Wed: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Thurs: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Fri: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Sat: Closed
- Sun: Closed
Help Residents of Cities:
- Lakeland
Westside Baptist Church
Food Pantry provides groceries to the people in need.
For more information please contact us at 863-422-4720.
Services provided :
- food pantry
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call (863) 422-4720 to book your appointment.
Address :
1416 Old Polk City Rd,
Haines City, FL 33844.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Tues: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Wed: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Thurs: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Fri: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Sat: Closed
- Sun: Closed
Help Residents of Counties:
- Polk
Saint David's Episcopal Church Food Pantry
The Food Pantry is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 11:00am-2:00pm. Everyone is welcome. No proof of income is required. Families shop freely for what they need. No one leaves hungry. No one is turned away.
Services provided :
- food pantry
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call (863) 686-4143 to book your appointment.
Address :
145 Edgewood Dr,
Lakeland, FL 33803.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon:
- Tues:
- Wed:
- Thurs:
- Fri:
- Sat:
- Sun:
Help Residents of Cities:
- Lakeland
Help Residents of Counties:
- Polk
First Presbyterian Church Food Pantry
The food pantry which serves the community is available on Tuesday 3-5pm & Thursday 10-12pm (only 1 visit per month). Please present identification. We are a true “small town†church that takes its connectional relationship with the presbytery quite seriously. We believe that mission is a critical part of our church’s calling. Our mission programs include our food pantry which provides food for about 600 people per month, plus various presbytery mission programs including Beth-El migrant farmworkers ministry, Cedarkirk Camp and Conference Center, Thornwell Children’s Home, etc. plus a healing shawl ministry.
Services provided :
- food pantry
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call (863) 967-1010 to book your appointment.
Address :
410 Pilaklakaha Ave,
Auburndale, FL 33823.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon:
- Tues:
- Wed:
- Thurs:
- Fri:
- Sat:
- Sun:
Help Residents of Cities:
- Auburndale
Help Residents of Counties:
- Polk
Catholic Charities Food Pantry
Resources provided by the Catholic Charity organization focus on addressing food, holiday, and immigration needs.
Families of all religions, backgrounds, and cultures can contact Catholic Charity centers for help.
Catholic Charities in Polk, Florida are open to families on a first-come, first-serve basis. The centers operate during normal business hours, and provide walk-ins with groceries, food boxes, and items to prepare a meal.
The food pantries are like grocery stores, allow clients the ability to choose the items they need from the groceries that are available on site.
First-time clients of the food pantry will need to apply, and this is done from a one-page application. An applicant will need to provide basic household member as well as demographic information.
We have located 5 Catholic Charities Food Pantry locations in Polk, Florida which provides a wide array of services. We have partnered so you can also check your eligibility.
Saint Anthony Catholic Church
Thanksgiving Food Baskets provides a basket containing food and items suitable for a thanksgiving meal along with our prayers and invitation to our Parish Masses for those who need assistance at this holiday. If you would like to assist with this ministry, please contact the Parish Office and we will have someone from the Food Pantry Ministry get in touch with you. Call 863.858.8047 to get more information.
Services provided :
- food pantry
- meals
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call (863) 858-8047 to book your appointment.
Address :
820 Marcum Rd,
Lakeland, FL 33809.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Tues: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Wed: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Thurs: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Fri: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Sat: Closed
- Sun: Closed
Help Residents of Cities:
- Lakeland
Catholic Charities of Central Florida - Winter Haven
Catholic Charities of Central Florida helps alleviate hunger in the community by offering the Winter Haven Food Pantry. We serve everyone from low income families, single parents, senior citizens, unemployed individuals, disabled veterans, working poor, and anyone else that comes to the pantry.
Please visit us for assistance.
Services provided :
- food pantry
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call (863) 299-7983 to book your appointment.
Address :
532 Avenue M NW,
Winter Haven, FL 33881.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon: 09:00 AM - 11:00 AM EST
- Tues: 09:00 AM - 11:00 AM EST
- Wed: 09:00 AM - 11:00 AM EST
- Thurs: 09:00 AM - 11:00 AM EST
- Fri: 09:00 AM - 11:00 AM EST
- Sat: Closed
- Sun: Closed
Help Residents of Counties:
- Polk
Catholic Charities of Central Florida
Distributes food to participating charitable agencies and organizations.
Services provided :
- food pantry
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call (863) 655-7074 to book your appointment.
Address :
625 McCue Rd, SUITE 2,
Lakeland, FL 33815.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon: 07:00 AM - 04:00 PM
- Tues: 07:00 AM - 04:00 PM
- Wed: 07:00 AM - 04:00 PM
- Thurs: 07:00 AM - 04:00 PM
- Fri: 07:00 AM - 04:00 PM
- Sat: Closed
- Sun: Closed
Help Residents of Counties:
- Polk
- Hardee
- Highlands
Catholic Charities of Central Florida - Lakeland Office & Food Pantry
The mission of Catholic Charities of Central Florida is to provide vital social services to people in need, regardless of their religious, social or economic background, to improve lives of individuals, families and the community. Food Assistance is available through Catholic Charities of Central Florida’s regional Food Pantries.
Services provided :
- food pantry
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call (863) 686-7153 to book your appointment.
Address :
1801 E Memorial Blvd,
Lakeland, FL 33801.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon:
- Tues:
- Wed:
- Thurs:
- Fri:
- Sat:
- Sun:
Help Residents of Cities:
- Lakeland
Help Residents of Counties:
- Polk
Catholic Charities of Central Florida - Winter Haven Food Pantry
The mission of Catholic Charities of Central Florida is to provide vital social services to people in need, regardless of their religious, social or economic background, to improve lives of individuals, families and the community. Food Assistance is available through Catholic Charities of Central Florida’s regional Food Pantries. Winter Haven Food Pantry: Monday - Friday 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Services provided :
- food pantry
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call (863) 299-7983 to book your appointment.
Address :
532 Ave,
M Nw Winter Haven, FL 33881.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon:
- Tues:
- Wed:
- Thurs:
- Fri:
- Sat:
- Sun:
Help Residents of Cities:
- M Nw Winter Haven
Help Residents of Counties:
- Polk
Helping Hands Food Pantry
Helping Hands is a faith-based 501(c)(3) food pantry operated around Polk, Florida almost entirely by volunteers.
It provides a 7-day supply of groceries and personal care items free of charge to people in need, regardless of their religious beliefs.
Helping Hands is supported entirely by donations from individuals, service organizations, churches, and businesses in our community.
Find a local helping hands food pantry open near you.
We have located 0 Helping Hand Food Pantry locations in Polk, Florida which provides a wide array of services. We have partnered so you can also check your eligibility.
Mobile Food Pantry
The mobile food pantry program distributes food directly to families in communities around Polk, Florida in need during large-scale one-day distributions.
A typical mobile pantry serves 200-250 families distributing up to 10,000 pounds of food. This past year over 6.6 million pounds were distributed through this program.
Mobile food pantries usually visit churches, community centers, schools, shopping centers, and other convenient locations. They usually go to areas where there aren't grocery stores or other food pantries.
Mobile Food Pantry Schedule 2024
Unlike traditional food pantries where you go to them, mobile pantry trucks come to you. Food banks sometimes have an online mobile food pantry schedule.
Mobile food pantry scheduled to visit a community once a week or once a month. There may be last-minute cancellations or changes so recheck the mobile food pantry schedule before you plan to go.
We have located 0 Mobile Food Pantry locations in Polk, Model.Content.StateName which provides a wide array of services. We have partnered so you can also check your eligibility.
St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry
The St. Vincent de Paul food pantry operates around Polk, Florida much like a grocery store where people in need can choose their own food. It helps to enhance their personal dignity and reduces waste due to unwanted food items.
It also helps them to be proactive in addressing any underlying health issues. This is our model of choice for food pantries in the future.
We have located 0 St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry locations in Polk, Florida which provides a wide array of services. We have partnered so you can also check your eligibility.
Food Pantry Delivery Program
Food Pantry Delivery Program delivers food and other products once a month at twenty points in around Polk, Florida area. This makes it just a bit easier for some of more remote rural agencies to receive their products. About 70% of members take advantage of the Food Pantry Delivery Program.
Food Pantry
We have located 14 Food Pantry locations in Polk, Florida which provides a wide array of services. We have partnered so you can also check your eligibility.
Metropolitan Ministries
Our Outreach Centers provide food outreach to hungry people through our MetroMarket (food pantry).
We provide:
- Nutritious food
- Hot, balanced meals
Documents required:
- Photo ID for adults
- Social Security card for all members of the family
- Proof of residency (utility bill or current lease)
Services provided :
- food pantry
- meals
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call (813) 209-1200 to book your appointment.
Address :
2301 N Tampa St,
Tampa, FL 33602.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM EST
- Tues: 09:00 AM - 07:30 AM EST
- Wed: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM EST
- Thurs: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM EST
- Fri: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM EST
- Sat: Closed
- Sun: Closed
Help Residents of Counties:
- Pinellas
- Hillsborough
- Pasco
- Pinellas
- Polk
Dream Center of Lakeland
The Dream Center of Lakeland is a Christ-centered community center that serves our at-risk neighbors, through free programs and resources facilitated by local churches, ministries, civic groups, and for-profit businesses that wish to make an impact in the city of Lakeland.
The Community Shoppe & Market is an innovative food pantry and clothing closet where neighbors are encouraged to give and receive. Functioning as a co-op, guests are invited to attend Dream Center programs where they earn Co-Op Vouchers that can be spent like cash at the Community Shoppe & Market. Items that can be "purchased" include non-perishable food, hygiene products, clothing, and more. Perishable grocery bags are available to all, with no restrictions.
Services provided :
- food pantry
- meals
- baby supplies
- clothing
- home goods
- toys & gifts
- financial education
- community support services
- mentoring
- spiritual support
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call (863) 413-0088ext to book your appointment.
Address :
,
Lakeland, FL 33805.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon: 09:00 AM - 08:00 PM EST
- Tues: 09:00 AM - 07:00 PM EST
- Wed: 09:00 AM - 08:00 PM EST
- Thurs: 09:00 AM - 07:00 PM EST
- Fri: Closed
- Sat: 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM EST
- Sun: 09:00 AM - 08:00 PM EST T:
Help Residents of Counties:
- Polk
B Street Community Service Center
The B street Center offers a variety of support services to community residents, while also offering programming that provides for the education, health and wellness and financial independence of community residents. A snap shot of the programs and services offered at the center include:
Computer access for those applying for SNAP/ EBT benefits
Computer literacy training for youth and adult
Fitness programs
Youth Mentoring Program
After school tutoring program
Food Bank
Summer programs for youth
Employment search assistance
For more information contact us at 863-679-8091.
Services provided :
- food pantry
- exercise & fitness
- daytime care
- navigating the system
- mentoring
- tutoring
- computer class
- help find work
- government food benefits
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call (863) 679-8091 to book your appointment.
Address :
230 B St,
Lake Wales, FL 33853.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon: 09:00 AM - 02:00 PM
- Tues: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Wed: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Thurs: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Fri: 09:00 AM - 02:00 PM
- Sat: Closed
- Sun: Closed
Help Residents of Counties:
- Polk
Lake Wales Care Center
Holidays Services provides gifts, books, games and food to the needy families and children. Care Center strives to assist the entire family during the holiday season and encourages community members to take part in next years assistance programs.
Contact us at 863-676-6678 ext. 1303 or email jolee.lwcc@gmail.com for more information.
Services provided :
- food delivery
- food pantry
- books
- toys & gifts
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call (863) 678-6678 to book your appointment.
Address :
140 E Park Ave,
Lake Wales, FL 33853.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Tues: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Wed: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Thurs: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Fri: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Sat: Closed
- Sun: Closed
Help Residents of Counties:
- Polk
Interfaith Charities of South Lee (ICSL)
Food Pantry clients at Interfaith Charities of South Lee (ICSL) can receive a 3-5 day supply of food every 30 days. Items include dry, canned and boxed items and other non-perishable foods. Clients may also come every 7 days to pick up bread, sweets, and other perishable foods.
Residents who live in communities south of Gladiolus Road, along US 41 and I-75, to Coconut Road in Estero can register to receive food from the food pantry.
Please contact us for more information on registration.
Services provided :
- food pantry
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call (239) 267-3510 to book your appointment.
Address :
17592 Rockefeller Cir,
Fort Myers, FL 33967.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon: 08:00 AM - 02:00 PM EST
- Tues: 08:00 AM - 02:00 PM EST
- Wed: 08:00 AM - 02:00 PM EST
- Thurs: 08:00 AM - 02:00 PM EST
- Fri: 08:00 AM - 02:00 PM EST
- Sat: 09:00 AM - 01:00 PM EST
- Sun: Closed
Help Residents of Counties:
- Lee
Agency For Community Treatment Services (ACTS)
The Frostproof Care Center is a faith based community service organization which demonstrates Christ's Love by building bridges between people in need and people with a desire to serve.
Occupancy:
• Mortgage, rent, utilities,
• Home furnishings, household items
Medical:
• Prescriptions, medical equipment
• Minor medical payments
Food
• Food box, hot meals, commodities
Personal Items:
• Clothes, school supplies, hygiene items
Career:
• Resume writing
• Interviewing skills
• Job search
• Scholarships for professional certifications and licensure
Transportation:
• Auto gas, minor repairs, bus tickets
Holiday Assistance:
• Holiday food boxes, Christmas gifts
WIC:
• The 3rd Monday of most months workers from the Health Dept. come to the Care Center to assist families with small children to obtain WIC vouncers and address issues. Hours are 8:15 to 3:00pm.
Services provided :
- emergency payments
- help pay for healthcare
- help pay for housing
- help pay for gas
- emergency food
- food pantry
- maintenance & repairs
- clothing
- home goods
- medical supplies
- help pay for transit
- prescription assistance
- financial education
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call (863) 635-5555 to book your appointment.
Address :
17 S Scenic Hwy,
Frostproof, FL 33843.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Tues: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Wed: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Thurs: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Fri: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Sat: Closed
- Sun: Closed
Help Residents of Counties:
- Polk
Family Emergency Services of Winter Haven
Family Emergency Services of Winter Haven helps families and individuals with emergency needs such as food and shelter to improve and/or to maintain quality of life and to provide the resources necessary to ensure self-sufficiency for the future. We provide assistance such as rent, mortgage, and utility assistance, as well as assistance filling prescriptions and obtaining IDs.
Services provided :
- emergency payments
- help pay for housing
- help pay for utilities
- food pantry
- prescription assistance
- financial assistance
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call (863) 294-1939 to book your appointment.
Address :
320 Avenue T NW,
Winter Haven, FL 33881.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon: 09:00 AM - 04:30 PM EST
- Tues: 09:00 AM - 04:30 PM EST
- Wed: 09:00 AM - 04:30 PM EST
- Thurs: 09:00 AM - 04:30 PM EST
- Fri: 09:00 AM - 04:30 PM EST
- Sat: Closed
- Sun: Closed
Help Residents of Counties:
- Polk
Polk County Department of Social Services
Fellowship Dining program provides meals to older residents , along with their caregivers, spouses, disabled children who live with them regardless of age.
The program provides both congregate and home-delivered meals.
Congregate meals are available for those individuals who are not homebound. Activities are offered daily at the sites and include nutrition education and counseling, games, parties, trips, exercises, speakers and socialization. The county also provides transportation to and from the meal sites when needed.
Home delivered meals are for individuals who are unable to come to the congregate meal sites because of health reasons, or live too far away for transportation to be provided.
Services provided :
- food delivery
- food pantry
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call (863) 899-2551 to book your appointment.
Address :
150 W 14th St,
Lakeland, FL 33805.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Tues: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Wed: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Thurs: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Fri: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Sat: Closed
- Sun: Closed
Help Residents of Counties:
- Polk
Christian Family and Youth Services - The Mission
The Mission is open to everyone. We interact with a wide array of people representing diverse needs from all walks of life. Our one on one approach to meeting needs is unique and it allows us to build relationships and in turn restore purpose not just to the individual but to the entire family. Through community cooperation we provide these services in an atmosphere of dignity, hope and unconditional love.
The Mission provides the following services:
- Food Pantry
- Hygiene Items
- A Warm Meal
- Bible Studies
- Showers
- Laundry Services
- Haircut and Barber Services
- Locker Facilities
- Resume Help
The Mission is a Christian organization, but does not withhold its services on the basis of race, religion, or any other factor. All services are free.
Services provided :
- food pantry
- meals
- personal care items
- personal hygiene
- spiritual support
- resume development
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call (863) 299-2348 to book your appointment.
Address :
180 E Central Ave,
Winter Haven, FL 33880.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon: 08:00 AM - 04:00 PM EST
- Tues: 08:00 AM - 04:00 PM EST
- Wed: 08:00 AM - 04:00 PM EST
- Thurs: 08:00 AM - 04:00 PM EST
- Fri: 08:00 AM - 02:00 PM EST
- Sat: Closed
- Sun: Closed
Help Residents of Counties:
- Polk
Elder Point Ministries
Portable Pantry is designed to assist seniors who are struggling to keep their pantry stocked because of physical ailments, economic circumstance, or lack of transportation.fresh. Portable Pantry truck comes with high quality produce that seniors can purchase for $1 per portion. Our seniors love the great value, selection and convenience of produce at their doorstep. We take all forms of payment including SNAP funds.
Portable Pantry CO-OP Locations includes;
• Monday at 1 – Georgetowne MHP 1501 Ariana Dr. Lakeland, FL 33803
• Tuesday at 11 – Woodbrook MHP 1510 Ariana Dr. Lakeland, FL 33803
At 2 Episcopal Catholic Apartments 500 Ave L Winter Haven 33881
• Wednesday at 2 Lakeview Tower 745 Ave C SW Winter Haven, FL 33880
• Thursday at 11 Lakeview Place Apartments 515 E. Orange St. Lakeland, FL 33803
At 2 Lakeland Presbyterian Apartments 530 S. Florida Ave. Lakeland, FL 33803
• Friday – 4th Friday YMCA North Lakeland 2125 Sleepy Hill Rd Lakeland, FL 33810
For additional information call (863) 682-7249.
Services provided :
- food pantry
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call (863) 682-7249 to book your appointment.
Address :
2125 Sleepy Hill Rd,
Lakeland, FL 33810.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Tues: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Wed: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Thurs: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Fri: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Sat: Closed
- Sun: Closed
Help Residents of Counties:
- Polk
Elder Point Ministries
ElderPoint Ministries supports hundreds of seniors in the greater Lakeland area with the help of a dynamic, interfaith group of volunteers and a generous community of donors and sponsors. We operate with one single goal: to meet the elderly of our community at the point of their need.
ElderPoint Ministries provides a continuum of free home-based caregiving services to support healthy, safe and independent living for our older adult neighbors, including a food pantry, transportation, and housing. Our pantry service allows seniors to select food items themselves. Rather than distributing pre-selected bags of food, seniors choose exactly what they want, for free.
ElderPoint aims to create a personal connection with our clients. Like concerned neighbors, we don’t look so much at which individual services will help an elder in our community, but what solutions will improve their quality of life. Our continuum of services includes:
• Mobile pantries focusing on fresh fruits and vegetables
• Yardwork, house painting and citation remediation
• Simple errands
• Transportation
• Light housekeeping
• Friendly calls
• Shopping
• Referral services with our partner agencies in the community
We simply desire to meet the needs of our clients, whatever they may be. If a client has a need that is not listed here, all they have to do is ask.
Services provided :
- food pantry
- maintenance & repairs
- transportation
- navigating the system
- support network
- home visiting
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call (863) 682-7249 to book your appointment.
Address :
1021 Lakeland Hills Blvd, suite 4 2 floor,
Lakeland, FL 33805.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM EST
- Tues: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM EST
- Wed: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM EST
- Thurs: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM EST
- Fri: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM EST
- Sat: Closed
- Sun: Closed
Help Residents of Counties:
- Polk
LFM Food Pantry & Warehouse
Through LFM's partnership with Agape Food Bank, Florida Baptist Children's Home and other like-minded organizations, LFM is able to provide food boxes to its members and the local community. LFM receives food from these organizations on a weekly and bi-weekly basis and distributes them on the last Wednesday of each month. To receive a food box, you must sign up in advance by visiting LFM's Recovery Resource Center at 780 West Main Street, Bartow, FL 33830. Individuals must be present to receive a box.
Services provided :
- food pantry
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call (863) 519-0000 to book your appointment.
Address :
780 W Main St,
Bartow, FL 33830.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon:
- Tues:
- Wed:
- Thurs:
- Fri:
- Sat:
- Sun:
Help Residents of Cities:
- Bartow
Help Residents of Counties:
- Polk
G. L. Hawthorne Lad Soup Kitchen
G. L. Hawthorne's Lad Soup Kitchen opened in 2008. Our first feedings took place at the Martin Luther King Jr. Park in Winter Haven, Florida. The volume of people being fed grew so rapidly that the park was not sufficient to handle the need. The Lad's Soup Kitchen's location moved to a facility that currently feeds approximately 300 meals per week.
Services provided :
- food pantry
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call (863) 401-8135 to book your appointment.
Address :
2101 2nd St Ne,
Winter Haven, FL 33881.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon:
- Tues:
- Wed:
- Thurs:
- Fri:
- Sat:
- Sun:
Help Residents of Cities:
- Winter Haven
Help Residents of Counties:
- Polk
Interfaith Charities of South Lee Estero/San Carlos Park United Way House
ICSL is a community service organization serving the residents of South Ft Myers, Estero, and San Carlos Park. The mission is to feed the hungry, guide the young, and aid the needy because we care. The major service provided is the community food pantry. In 2013 we provided food for 483 households which is 4,173 individuals. ICSL received 505,467 pounds of dry good donations from local merchants, HOA and church food drives as well as individual contributions. Since its founding in 1991, ICSL has grown at a significant rate to meet the increasing needs of the community. ICSL receives grants from United Way of Lee, Hendry and Glades counties to assist in the payment of client utility bills, rents and mortgages. Other programs include connecting clients with available services. The VITA program is a free income tax return preparation service. In 2013, 425 tax returns were prepared, which netted $625,745 in individual refunds. Meals on Wheels delivered 3,403 meals in 2013. We continue to add programs as we are able in order to provide essential services that would otherwise go unmet. As the Estero/San Carlos Park United Way House, other UW partners are able to utilize our property to its fullest. Each week is busy with activities including teaching English as a second language and Money Management class by the University of Florida Extension Service, to teach budgeting, setting financial goals and becoming fiscally responsible. All of our programs are only possible through the availability of the facility purchased in the fall of 2008. We are thankful for the faithfulness of our supporters, staff, volunteers, and board of directors who demonstrate their compassion in many areas of service. Without them we would not be able to meet the needs of our neighbors in our community. 98% of our cash and in-kind donations received is used directly for program activities. ICSL’s continued success is directly dependent on our volunteers. Opportunities exist in our office and pantry for sorting baked goods, stocking shelves, and assisting clients that come for help. Volunteer drivers are needed for food pick up at stores, to deliver bread or hot meals. ICSL is also an approved service learning site for FGCU students and other youth that need to complete volunteer service hours. In 2013 volunteers recorded 14,254 hours of service. Without these volunteer service hours, that time would require 7 full-time positions at an estimated cost of $302,762. ICSL is where real needs are met by real people, that is people like you and me caring about our neighbors. We continue to be a lifeline for more men, women and children every week. We continue to need your support through your time, energy and finances to enable us to purchase food, fund programs and operational costs, purchase capital equipment and pay down the mortgage. FOOD PANTRY: Clients can recieve a 3-5 day supply of food from the FOOD PANTRY every 30 days. Items include dry, canned and boxed items and other non-perishable foods. Clients may also come every 7 days to pick up bread, sweets, and other perishable foods.
Services provided :
- food pantry
Appointments :
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call (239) 267-3510 to book your appointment.
Address :
17592 Rockefeller Circle Ft,
Myers, FL 33967.
Get Directions
Hours Of Operations :
- Mon:
- Tues:
- Wed:
- Thurs:
- Fri:
- Sat:
- Sun:
Help Residents of Cities:
- Myers
Help Residents of Counties:
- Polk
Drive-thru Food Pantries
Since the start of the coronavirus, drive-thru food pantries have become the safest, most efficient way to provide food to our struggling neighbors.
Who can visit a drive-thru pantry?
Drive-thru pantries are open for anyone who needs help getting food. There are no eligibility criteria. Visitors do not need to provide any identification or income statements.
Only two piece of information is asked
- You Zipcode, and
- Number of people in their family.
You dont need to take appointment. Drive-thru pantries are first-come, first served so plan to arrive early.
How do drive-thru pantries actually work?
There are lot of volunteers help at Drive-thru food pantries. While not all drive-thru pantries operate in the same way, here�s how most work:
Staff and volunteers direct visitors to the parking area.
Visitors pull up to the pantry in their car and are usually guided into a clearly marked queue. As people move through the pantry, staff will continue to move the cars forward to get everyone through as quickly and safely as possible.
Checkin.
You are required to fill some information for Pantry's recording keeping.
Food is loaded into the cars.
Pre-packed bags of food, usually full of shelf-stable items like pasta, canned fruit and peanut butter, as well as fresh produce and meats are loaded by volunteers into the trunk of the car.
Pet Food Pantry
One in four pet owners who give up their pets to a shelter say it is because they cannot afford to care for them. Pet Food Pantries are designed to fill the void in the nation�s current assistance programs that exclude the purchase of food and supplies for family pets.
The Pet Food Pantry provides free pet food, for 3 months or less, to pet owners who cannot afford to feed their pets in Polk, Florida
Who are eligible for Pet Food Pantry
Pet Food Pantry helps people who are:
- All ages, races and marital status
- Unemployed or underemployed
- Retired, living on social security or other limited income
- Physically or mentally disabled
- Experiencing homelessness or housing instability
Tips for Visiting a Food Pantry
Show up early.
This is very important. This means you will be first in line and have a chance to get the items that are sought after and in limited quantities such as fresh produce, dairy and frozen food.
You don't usually need to show up hours ahead of time but coming at least an hour before is usually a good idea.
Remember all documentation.
Many food pantries require documentation to prove who you are, and in some cases, where you live.
This is to make sure people are not coming more than they are allowed or using fake names to do so. Call ahead of time to find out what documentation is needed.
It's just your photo ID and a piece of mail that verifies your address.
Use several food banks.
Using more than one food bank (when available) is smart because you may be able to get something at one that you may not get at another.
For instance, one may have a deal with a local gardener that gives them their extras. This may mean this food bank has more produce.
Eligible for other programs?
Ask your Department of Social Services office if you are eligible for other assistance programs to supplement your household’s food supply.
They can easily tell you if you can apply for WIC (Women and Infant Children), USDA Commodities or SNAP(Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits.
Ask about extras.
If you have special needs for infants or special diets, the pantries may be able to assist you.
Many times, they can help with diapers, baby formula, baby food, personal hygiene products, and even special diet items like gluten free or sugar free foods.
Go on different days of the week.
Depending on the food pantry, they may be open only one or two days a week or they may be open all seven days. When you have a choice, going midweek is often best as it is less crowded.
Be polite to workers.
Nearly everyone at a food bank is a volunteer. Be polite to the workers there as they often deal with highly emotional situations.
FAQ(Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What is the difference between a food bank and a food pantry?
Independent community food pantries are self-governing and usually distribute food to their clients on a once-a-month basis. A food bank is the storehouse for millions of pounds of food and other products that go out to the community. A food pantry functions as the arms that reach out to that community directly.
2. What kind of food is at a food pantry?
Specifically, food banks often need items like:
- Peanut butter
- Canned soup
- Canned fruit
- Canned vegetables
- Pasta
- Canned beans
- Canned stew
- Canned fish
3. Who can go to food pantry?
At the majority of food pantries, eligibility is based on self-attested need. You do not need to have a referral, and income is not a factor to receive food.
4. What is the difference between a food pantry and a soup kitchen?
A food pantry provides three-day food packages to families that have a place to live, but not enough food. These packages are designed to provide nutritionally balanced meals. Soup kitchens serve individuals in need of a hot meal, the only meal of the day for many of them.
5. How does a food pantry work?
Food Banks acquire large donations of edible but unmarketable food from the food industry and distribute it to organizations that feed hungry people. Then they provide this food to family in a need.