If your family is feeling the pinch with SNAP funding on hold, you’re not alone — and Cleveland is full of organizations ready to help. We’ve rounded up local resources where you can find free groceries, community meals, and kid-friendly food programs to make things a little easier.
Local Food Pantries, Food Banks, Community Meals & Free Food Events
- Greater Cleveland Food Bank — They partner with over 1,000 programs and agencies across Northeast Ohio, offering an interactive map so you can find a nearby pantry or meal site. Use their interactive “Find Food Near Me” map on their website. Call their Help Center at (216) 738-2067 to locate a site and confirm hours.
- The Hunger Network — They provide a searchable map of over 70+ food pantry or hot meal sites throughout Northeast Ohio. ID/residency proof may be required.
- Society of St. Vincent de Paul Cleveland Hunger Centers - SVDP operates several hunger centers that offer emergency food supplies, hot meals and other necessities.
- Heights Emergency Food Center - Serves Cleveland Heights, University Heights, South Euclid, Lyndhurst.
- West Side Catholic Center - Hot meals six days a week. Monthly food pantry distribution (call ahead).
- End 68 Hours of Hunger in Lake County - This program puts nourishing food in the hands of school children to carry them through the weekend. Each bag of food provides two breakfasts, two lunches, and three dinners for a child.
Find More Resources in Cuyahoga County
Find More Resources in Lake County
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💕 Ways to Help Others
If your family is in a position to give back, many of these groups welcome donations or volunteers. A few cans of soup, a bag of rice, or a few minutes helping stock shelves can make a real difference.
More Local Resources
- 211 Helpline: Call 211 or visit 211.org for up-to-date information on food, housing, and family resources in Cleveland East.
- Feeding America: Find additional food pantries at FeedingAmerica.org/find-your-local-foodbank.
Macaroni KID Cleveland East and Cleveland West are here to support local families — whether it’s finding fun things to do or helping when times are tough. Because being part of Cleveland means showing up for each other — and we’re always here to help you find what your family needs.
Written with the assistance of AI
