Food Pantries and Free Meals

What are food pantries and free meals?

Food pantries are places where people can go to get free bags or boxes of uncooked food to take home with them. Free meals programs are places where people can go to eat cooked meals free of charge. Most of the programs operate on a walk-in basis, but some ask that you call ahead. Some have income limits or other eligibility requirements.

Am I eligible?

Anyone in need is welcome at food pantries and free meals programs, though some limit your visits or ask that you meet income guidelines. You do not need to apply for these programs. Food and meals are offered free of charge. The Worcester County Food Bank, 508-842-3663, and all the shelters in Worcester have information on the local food pantries and free meals programs. You can also call the Project Bread FoodSource Hotline at 1-800-645-8333 to find a program near you.

Where do I go to get free food and meals?

Worcester has several free meals programs and over 25 food pantries. For the phone numbers, addresses, and hours, see the Worcester County Food Bank's Program List by Town (requires Adobe Reader), or call the Food Bank at 508-842-3663.

More information

More information about Food Pantries and Free Meals is on our statewide web site MassResources.org. When you click on the link below, you will go to MassResources.org. Click "Back" on your browser to return to WorcesterResources.org.

•  Go to Food Pantries and Free Meals on MassResources.org