Food Assistance Resources in Arizona

Last updated September 7, 2026

If you or someone you care for is struggling to afford food in Arizona, you are not alone — and real help is available. Arizona administers several federally funded nutrition programs, including SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and WIC (Women, Infants, and Children), through the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES). Eligibility is based on household size and income, and many families qualify even if they are working.

Beyond government programs, Arizona has a strong network of food banks, pantries, and meal programs — many of which require no paperwork at all. The easiest way to find what is available near you is to call or text 2-1-1, Arizona's free, 24/7 social services helpline. Specialists can connect you with food pantries, emergency food boxes, hot meal sites, and other local resources by ZIP code.

Seniors, people with disabilities, and families with young children may qualify for additional nutrition support such as the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) or home-delivered meals. If you are unsure where to start, a social worker or case manager at your local DES office can help you identify every program you may be eligible for — often in a single appointment.

Key programs in Arizona

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) – Arizona DES

Monthly electronic benefits (loaded onto an EBT card) to purchase groceries at most stores and farmers markets. Eligibility is based on household size and income.

How to access: Apply online at healthearizonaplus.gov, visit a local Arizona DES office, or call DES at 1-855-HEA-PLUS (1-855-432-7587). You can also start the process by calling 2-1-1.

WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children) – Arizona WIC Program

Provides nutritious foods, infant formula, nutrition counseling, and referrals for pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and children under age 5 who meet income guidelines.

How to access: Contact the Arizona WIC Program through the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) at 1-800-252-5942, or find your nearest WIC clinic at azwic.gov.

2-1-1 Arizona

Free, confidential helpline that connects Arizona residents to local food pantries, emergency food boxes, hot meal programs, and other assistance by ZIP code — available 24/7.

How to access: Dial or text 2-1-1 from anywhere in Arizona, or search online at 211arizona.org. Language assistance is available.

Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) – Senior Food Boxes

Provides monthly boxes of USDA commodity foods (such as canned goods, cereals, and dairy) to low-income adults aged 60 and older. Administered locally through food banks and community organizations across Arizona.

How to access: Availability varies by county. Call 2-1-1 to find the nearest CSFP distribution site, or contact your local Area Agency on Aging through the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116.

Senior Nutrition Programs – Area Agencies on Aging

Provides congregate (group) meals at senior centers and home-delivered meals (often called Meals on Wheels) for homebound older adults in Arizona. Helps seniors maintain nutrition and independence.

How to access: Contact the national Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 to be connected to your local Area Agency on Aging, or call 2-1-1 for local meal program locations.

Food Assistance resources for Arizona

211 (United Way)

Nationwide

Free, confidential referral line for food, and other essential local services. Dial 211.

211
Visit

Feeding America

Nationwide

Nationwide network of food banks connecting people to local pantries and meal programs.

1-800-771-2303
Visit

SNAP (USDA Food & Nutrition Service)

Nationwide

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program — monthly benefits to buy food for eligible low-income individuals and families.

Visit
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