We all face times when we need a little extra support. At the Mid-Ohio Food Collective, we are dedicated to creating clear pathways to the assistance you require. If you’re looking for help, particularly with food access in the Mid-Ohio region, you’ve come to the right place.
A person thoughtfully looking out of a window, representing the need for support and resources.
Need Food Now? We’re Here to Help.
Our primary goal is to ensure that anyone experiencing food insecurity can quickly and easily find the food resources they need. We understand that navigating assistance programs can be overwhelming, especially when you’re facing hunger. That’s why we’ve streamlined the process to connect you with food and support as efficiently as possible.
A navigation icon pointing towards resources, symbolizing guidance and direction to help.
First Time Seeking Help? Let Us Guide You.
If this is your first time exploring food assistance options, we are here to guide you through every step. We’ll help you understand the available resources and identify the pathways that will make a real difference in your situation. Our aim is to empower you with the knowledge and connections necessary to overcome food insecurity and build a more stable future.
A person looking at a resource map, representing understanding and access to available programs.
Understanding Program Eligibility and Options.
Navigating eligibility requirements for various assistance programs can be confusing. We simplify this process by providing clear information on which programs you may qualify for. We are committed to helping you understand the specifics of each program, ensuring you can access all the support you are entitled to.
People in a meeting discussing resources, symbolizing collaborative help and problem-solving.
Addressing the Root Causes of Hunger.
Beyond immediate food assistance, we believe in tackling the underlying issues that contribute to food insecurity. We offer support and resources designed to address the root problems behind hunger, fostering long-term stability and self-sufficiency for individuals and families in Mid-Ohio.
Find Help Today, Hope for Tomorrow.
We are pleased you’ve reached out to us. Below, you’ll find various ways to access immediate food assistance and discover resources that offer hope for a more secure future.
Find Food Now Near You
Learn About Proxy Shopping Services
Explore Food Resources and Markets
Discover Family Services and Support
Detailed Food Assistance Programs at Mid-Ohio Food Bank
The Mid-Ohio Food Bank is not just a food bank; it’s a collective dedicated to offering a wide spectrum of resources to combat hunger and its root causes. Here’s a closer look at how you can access food and support through our programs:
Find Food Quickly and Easily
A person using a smartphone to find food locations, representing digital access to food resources.
“Find Food Close to You” with FreshTrak: Locating food assistance near you has never been easier. Using our FreshTrak tool, we provide up-to-date information on nearby food pantries and meal sites. Simply enter your zip code, and FreshTrak will display a list of locations, operating hours, and contact details. This service ensures you have the most current information to access food quickly.
Proxy Shopping: Get Food Even When You Can’t Travel
Need someone to pick up food for you? We understand that various circumstances can prevent you from visiting a food pantry yourself. Through our proxy shopping system, you can authorize a trusted friend or family member to pick up food on your behalf. This service is particularly helpful if you are ill, quarantined, disabled, or facing transportation challenges. We provide proxy letters in multiple languages to ensure accessibility for everyone in our diverse community.
Download the English Proxy Letter
Download the Haitian Creole Proxy Letter
Download the Turkish Proxy Letter
Download the Spanish Proxy Letter
Download the Somali Proxy Letter
Download the Russian Proxy Letter
Download the Hindi Proxy Letter
Download the French Proxy Letter
Download the Arabic Proxy Letter
A proxy letter and a pen, illustrating the process of authorizing someone to pick up food.
The Market Experience: Choosing Your Groceries
People selecting fresh produce at a market, representing a grocery store-like experience for food assistance.
Grocery Store Style Food Assistance: Our Markets offer a dignified and empowering way to access food. Customers can choose from a variety of free fresh produce and shelf-stable items, resembling a typical grocery shopping experience. Inventory varies by location and day, but we strive to provide a diverse selection.
Eligibility for Market Program: Individuals and families with a household income below 200% of the federal poverty level are eligible to shop at our Markets.
Find Market Locations Near You
Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS)
Comprehensive Support for Ohioans: The ODJFS provides a wide range of crucial services to Ohio residents, aiming to improve overall well-being. Their website is a valuable resource for those seeking assistance with employment and training, unemployment benefits, cash assistance, food assistance programs beyond our food bank, childcare, protective services, adoption, and child support.
Visit the Ohio Department of Job & Family Services Website
The ODJFS logo and website interface, representing access to state-level support services.
Community Meals at Mid-Ohio Kitchen at Roots
A welcoming kitchen interior, suggesting a community meal setting at Roots.
Free Meals in a Welcoming Environment: Located at the Reeb Center, the Mid-Ohio Kitchen at Roots provides free community meals Monday through Friday, from 11 AM to 2 PM. Enjoy a nutritious meal in a friendly and supportive atmosphere.
Learn More About Mid-Ohio Kitchen at Reeb Center
SNAP Benefits: Supplementing Your Food Budget
Enroll in SNAP for Food Assistance: The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), often known as food stamps, can significantly boost your food budget. If your household income is below 130% of the Federal Poverty Level, you may be eligible for SNAP benefits. Our dedicated team can assist you with the SNAP enrollment process.
Contact Us for SNAP Enrollment Assistance
Farmers Markets Accepting SNAP/EBT: Expand your healthy food options by visiting farmers markets that accept SNAP benefits. This directory lists farmers markets across Ohio where you can use your EBT/SNAP card.
Ohio Farmers Market Directory Accepting SNAP/EBT
A SNAP card and fresh produce, representing the use of SNAP benefits for healthy food.
WIC: Nutrition Support for Women, Infants, and Children
A mother and child with healthy food, representing the WIC program's focus on nutrition for families.
Focused Nutrition for Moms and Young Children: The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is designed to support pregnant and breastfeeding women, infants, and children up to age five. WIC provides nutritional education, breastfeeding support, nutritious foods, and infant formula to eligible families.
Learn More About WIC and Check Your Eligibility
Farmacy: Food as Part of Health Care
Fresh produce and medical equipment, symbolizing food-based healthcare at Farmacy.
Food-Based Health Support: Recognizing the vital role of nutrition in managing chronic health conditions, our Farmacy program provides food-based healthcare. Under the guidance of a physician, patients receive weekly access to fresh produce from our Market, supporting them in managing their health through nutritious food choices. Note: Farmacy focuses on food and does not provide medication.
Discover Mid-Ohio Farmacy Program
2-1-1 and Lutheran Social Services: Access to a Network of Services
The LSS logo, representing access to Lutheran Social Services and their hotline.
24/7 Information and Referral Hotline: Lutheran Social Services (LSS) offers a 24-hour hotline through 2-1-1 in Franklin County. They can connect you with food pantries, emergency food sites, rental and housing assistance, and other essential support services. 2-1-1 is a crucial resource for navigating the social services landscape in our community.
Call 2-1-1 in Franklin County
Visit the LSS 211 Central Ohio Website
Addiction Recovery Resources
Support for Addiction Recovery: We recognize the intersection of food insecurity and addiction. For those seeking addiction recovery resources, especially within BIPOC communities who are disproportionately affected, we offer a curated list of organizations that can help:
- Southeast Addiction Center: Resources for Black men facing substance use disorder and mental health challenges.
- Louisville Addiction Center: A comprehensive resource for BIPOC parents.
- Southeast Detox: A guide with over 50 vetted resources for Black women.
- Live Another Day: Dedicated to equal access to mental health and substance use disorder resources.
People in a support group, symbolizing community and recovery from addiction.
Diverse hands reaching out, representing support and resources for addiction recovery.
Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) for Seniors
Monthly Food Boxes for Seniors: The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) provides a monthly box of nutritious, shelf-stable food items to eligible seniors. These boxes typically include items like cheese, juice, cereal, pasta, peanut butter, and canned goods, helping to supplement the diets of older adults.
Click Here to Find Senior Food Boxes in Your Area
We at the Mid-Ohio Food Bank are committed to serving our community and ensuring everyone has access to the food and resources they need to thrive. Explore these programs and reach out to us – we are here to help.
