Food
Ask about it
Tell us more about what you need, in your own words. You get the programs that fit and people to call.
Programs in the District of Columbia
District of Columbia programs for this kind of help. Each agency decides who qualifies.
Department of Human Services
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
SNAP helps eligible residents buy food each month.
Ways to apply:OnlinePaperIn person
Department of Health
Women, Infants, and Children Program
WIC provides eligible pregnant people, new parents, infants, and young children with food and nutrition support.
Ways to apply:PhoneIn person
Office of the State Superintendent of Education
National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program
OSSE oversees federal school meal programs that provide meals to students at participating schools.
Ways to apply:PaperIn person
Office of the State Superintendent of Education
DC SUN Bucks
DC SUN Bucks provides summer grocery benefits to eligible school-age children.
Ways to apply:OnlinePaper
Checked on October 8, 2026
Food banks that serve the District of Columbia
Food banks in the Feeding America network supply the food pantries and meal sites near you. Call yours or check its website to find one close by.
- Capital Area Food Bank
Serves the whole state
Call 202-644-9800Find food near youListed on feedingamerica.org, checked on October 10, 2026
Talk to a person
- Answers, Please
Free help finding food, housing, bills and more near you.
Call 211 - 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 if you are in crisis or worried about someone. Any time.
Call 988Text 988