Lending a Hand in Our Community: Food Banks Across Oklahoma City and Surrounding Areas
Community Assistance: Food Banks, Pantries and Churches Across Oklahoma City and Surrounding Areas
In every community, there’s a thread that binds us together: the spirit of giving, caring, and supporting one another. Life can throw challenges our way that we don’t always expect, and for many families in Oklahoma City and its surrounding areas, access to healthy, nourishing food can sometimes be a struggle. That’s where our incredible local food banks step in acting as a lifeline, a place of hope, and a symbol of community resilience.
Whether you’re looking to donate, volunteer, or need assistance yourself, knowing where to turn is important. Here’s a heartfelt guide to food banks serving Oklahoma City and surrounding areas, including Yukon, Nicoma Park, Mustang, Midwest City, Choctaw, Spencer, Jones, Moore, Guthrie, The Village, Warr Acres, Del City, Harrah, Noble, New Castle, Bethany, Edmond, and Arcadia.
Important: Hours and eligibility may change. Call ahead before you go and bring photo ID and proof of address if you can.
Major Hub (good first call)
Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma — Food & Resource Center (hub)
2635 N. Shields Blvd., Moore, OK 73160
Phone: 405-600-3182 (main hub / community referrals)
Notes: Central hub for many partner pantries; can often point you to the nearest site that has available food.Oklahoma City
Skyline Urban Ministry – Food Resource Center
500 SE 15th St., Oklahoma City, OK 73129
Phone: 405-632-2644
Notes: Shopping-style pantry and mobile pantry.The Urban Mission — Food & Resource Center
3737 N. Portland Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73112
Phone: 405-946-1556
Notes: Drive-thru distributions; early arrival recommended.City Rescue Mission
800 W. California Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73106
Phone: 405-232-2709
Notes: Daily meals and emergency food.The Salvation Army — Central OK Area Command
1001 N. Pennsylvania Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73107
Phone: 405-246-1060 (or 405-246-1100)
Notes: Food pantry and hot meals.Christian Service Center
115 SW 24th St., Oklahoma City, OK 73109
Phone: 405-236-5956Other Options, Inc. – Friends Food Pantry
3636 NW 51st St., Oklahoma City, OK 73112
Phone: 405-605-8020BritVil Community Food Pantry
8717 N. Western Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73114
Phone: 405-842-1275Neighborhood Services Organization (NSO)
431 SW 11th St., Oklahoma City, OK 73109
Phone: 405-236-0413Bible Methodist Church Pantry
5801 S. Douglas Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73109
Phone: 405-632-2060CrossOver Church Outreach Center
5112 S. Blackwelder Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73119
Phone: 405-824-7070Light and Salvation Church Pantry
3508 Newcastle Rd, OKC 73119
Phone: 405-924-3951OKC Dream Center
2212 SW 55th St., Oklahoma City, OK 73119
Phone: 405-634-2615🥫 The Village: A Community That Cares
BritVil Community Food Pantry
📍 8717 N Western Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73114
📞 (405) 842-1275
🕒 Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
BritVil Community Food Pantry serves residents of The Village and surrounding areas. They provide food assistance to individuals and families experiencing economic difficulties. BritVil Food Pantry🛒 Warr Acres: Neighbors Helping Neighbors
City Center – Food Pantry
📍 5731 NW 41st St, Warr Acres, OK 73122
📞 (405) 384-5670
🕒 Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
City Center offers a variety of services, including a food pantry, hot meals, family meal kits, and baby care items. They are dedicated to providing support to families in need in the Warr Acres community. Heartline+1Putnam City United Methodist Church – Food Pantry
📍 5819 NW 41st St, Warr Acres, OK 73122
📞 (405) 491-1304
🕒 Hours: Thursday: 1:15 PM – 3:30 PM
Putnam City United Methodist Church operates a food pantry to assist local residents. They welcome individuals and families in need to come and receive support. WhyHungerTulakes Neighborhood Ministries
📍 7301 Comanche Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73132
Tulakes Neighborhood Ministries offers various services, including a food pantry, to support the community. They are dedicated to helping families in the Warr Acres area. Find HelpMoore & Norman
Regional Food Bank (Moore Food & Resource Center)
2635 N. Shields Blvd., Moore, OK 73160
Phone: 405-600-3182🥫 Moore: Where Community Comes Together
Moore Food & Resource Center
📍 2635 N. Shields Blvd, Moore, OK 73160
📞 (405) 600-3182
🕒 Hours:
Monday: 12:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Wednesday – Friday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
3rd Saturday: 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Operated by the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, this client-choice pantry allows individuals to select their own groceries, promoting dignity and choice. It serves residents of Moore, south Oklahoma City, and Norman, distributing fresh produce, dairy, and pantry staples. Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma
First Moore Baptist Church – Care Center Food Pantry
📍 301 NE 27th St, Moore, OK 73160
📞 (405) 793-2600
🕒 Hours:
Monday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM & 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Serving zip codes 73135, 73139, 73149, 73159, 73160, and 73170, this pantry offers a drive-thru service to ensure convenience and safety for all clients. First Moore Baptist Church
St. Andrew Catholic Church – Pac-A-Sac Food Pantry
📍 800 NW 5th St, Moore, OK 73160
📞 (405) 799-3334
🕒 Hours:
Tuesday & Friday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Exclusively serving Moore residents, this pantry provides essential groceries to those in need. St. Andrew Catholic Church
Hilltop Baptist Church – Mastercare Pantry
📍 11710 E. Stella Rd, Norman, OK 73026
📞 (405) 794-0603
🕒 Perishable Distribution:
1st & 3rd Wednesday: 10:00 AM (First come, first served)
This pantry offers perishable items to families in need, assisting over 50 families during each distribution. Hilltop Baptist Church
CrossPointe Church – Care Center Food Pantry
📍 2601 24th Ave SE, Norman, OK 73071
📞 (405) 329-0823
🕒 Hours:
Friday: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Clients are eligible for assistance every 60 days and are required to provide a photo ID with a current address. crosspointe.tv
McFarlin Memorial United Methodist Church – Food Pantry
📍 401 S. University Blvd, Norman, OK 73069
📞 (405) 321-3484
🕒 Hours:
Tuesday & Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Serving residents of Norman, Noble, and Little Axe, this pantry requires a photo ID and proof of residence. mcfarlinumc.org
Alameda Baptist Church – Food Pantry
📍 1503 E. Alameda St, Norman, OK 73071
📞 (405) 329-5157
🕒 Hours:
Tuesday & Thursday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM (By appointment only)
Assisting residents of Norman and Noble, this pantry requires appointments to ensure personalized service. alamedabaptistnorman.com
The Mission – Norman
📍 2525 E. Lindsey St, Norman, OK 73071
📞 (405) 321-8880
🕒 Hours:
Monday – Friday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Open to all, The Mission provides food assistance without the need for an appointment, focusing on meeting the needs of a hurting world. The Mission
OU Food Pantry
📍 331 Cate Center Dr, Norman, OK 73019
📞 (405) 325-3161
🕒 Hours:
Monday – Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Exclusively serving University of Oklahoma students, this pantry offers food, clothing, and other essentials to support the campus community. University of Oklahoma
Edmond, Jones & Arcadia Neighbors Helping Neighbors
Hope Center of Edmond
1251 N. Broadway, Edmond, OK 73034
Phone: 405-348-1340
Notes: Food, clothing, help with utilities.Project 66 (Edmond / Jones / Arcadia service)
Phone: 405-341-1353 (Project 66 runs monthly community distributions in Edmond area)🛒 Arcadia: Small Town, Big Heart
HOPE Center of Edmond
As mentioned above, HOPE Center also serves residents of Arcadia, offering essential services to those in need.🥄 Jones: Neighbors Helping Neighbors
Jones Community Food Pantry
📍 320 SW 3rd St, Jones, OK 73049
📞 (405) 399-2222
🕒 Hours:
2nd & 4th Saturdays: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Located at the First Baptist Church, this pantry provides food assistance to residents of Jones. Clients can enter on the north side of the building under the stairs. Facebook
Eastern Oklahoma County Resource Center (EOCRC)
📍 1850 Commerce Drive, Choctaw, OK 73020
📞 (405) 297-4998
🕒 Pantry Hours:
Tuesday & Thursday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Yukon
🥫 Yukon: A Community That Cares
Manna Pantry
📍 123 S. 6th Street, Yukon, OK 73099
📞 (405) 265-0193
🕒 Hours:
Monday: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Tuesday: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM & 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Thursday – Sunday: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Manna Pantry is a food resource center feeding the hungry in Canadian County. It is a non-profit community service proudly supported by local churches, businesses, and individuals. Together We Center
Compassionate Sharing
📍 4 N. 6th Street, Yukon, OK 73099
📞 (405) 354-9591
🕒 Hours:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Through their food and clothing pantry, transportation services, and utility assistance programs, Compassionate Sharing aims to create a safety net for those most vulnerable in the community. compassionatesharingyukon.com
Discovery Helps Food Pantry
📍 900 E. Main St., Yukon, OK 73099
📞 (405) 354-2436
🕒 Hours:
First Sunday: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Third Monday: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
The Discovery Helps Food Pantry is open on the first Sunday and third Monday of each month, welcoming everyone in need without requiring membership or documentation. Discovery Church
Yukon Sharing Ministries
📍 4 N. 6th Street, Yukon, OK 73099
📞 (405) 354-9456
🕒 Hours:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 9:00 AM – 1:30 PM
Yukon Sharing Ministries provides food and clothing assistance to residents of the Yukon School District and 73099 zip code. Integris Health
🛒 Mustang: Neighbors Helping Neighbors
First Baptist Church of Mustang – Food Pantry
📍 928 N. Mustang Rd, Mustang, OK 73064
📞 (405) 376-4567
🕒 Hours:
Monday – Thursday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
The First Baptist Church of Mustang offers a food pantry to assist local families in need. mustangps.org
Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry – The Bridge Church
📍 1116 W. Highway 152, Mustang, OK 73064
📞 (405) 376-4538
🕒 Hours:
Thursday: 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry operates every Thursday, offering a warm and welcoming environment for anyone in need of emergency food support. Find Help
Christ Lutheran Church – Food Pantry
📍 501 N. Clear Springs Rd, Mustang, OK 73064
📞 (405) 376-3116
🕒 Hours:
Monday – Thursday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Christ Lutheran Church in Mustang offers a food pantry to assist local families in need. Christ Lutheran Church
Chisholm Heights Baptist Church – Food Pantry
📍 2243 W. Highway 152, Mustang, OK 73064
📞 (405) 376-4531
🕒 Hours:
Weekdays: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Clothing Closet: Tuesday & Thursday: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Chisholm Heights Baptist Church offers a food pantry and clothing closet to assist local families in need. mustangps.org
Mustang Church of the Nazarene – Food Pantry
📍 700 E. Highway 152, Mustang, OK 73064
📞 (405) 376-2892
🕒 Hours:
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Mustang Church of the Nazarene offers a food pantry to assist local families in need. Cloudinary
Nicoma Park Neighbors Helping Neighbors
🥫 Nicoma Park: A Community That Cares
First Baptist Church – Nicoma Park (WeCare Ministry)
📍 2020 Nicoma Lane, Nicoma Park, OK 73066
📞 (405) 769-5623
🕒 Hours:
Fridays: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
The WeCare Ministry at First Baptist Church has been serving the Nicoma Park community since 1987. They provide food, clothing, and home goods to those in need. As an official pantry with the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, they are dedicated to helping their neighbors during difficult times. firstpark.org
Eastern Oklahoma County Resource Center (EOCRC)
📍 1850 Commerce Drive, Choctaw, OK 73020
📞 (405) 297-4998
🕒 Pantry Hours:
Tuesdays & Thursdays: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
EOCRC serves communities including Nicoma Park, offering free food assistance to individuals and families in need. Their mission is to provide support with dignity, kindness, and compassion. No appointment is needed—just walk in. EOCRC
City of Nicoma Park Community Activities
📍 2020 Nicoma Lane, Nicoma Park, OK 73066
🕒 Hours:
Fridays: 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM (or as long as food lasts)
The city offers a community food distribution every Friday, providing essential items to local residents. The clothing area is open until 12:30 PM. nicomapark.org
🛒 Spencer: Neighbors Helping Neighbors
St. Luke Baptist Church – Food Pantry
📍 10001 NE 50th Street, Spencer, OK 73084
📞 (405) 769-5123
🕒 Hours:
Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
St. Luke Baptist Church provides a food pantry for residents of Spencer. A referral from the Community Action Center is required to access services. Heartline
In the Gap Food Pantry – True Vine Ministries
📍 10001 NE 50th Street, Spencer, OK 73084
📞 (405) 769-5123
🕒 Hours:
Third Friday of each month: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
True Vine Ministries operates the "In the Gap" food pantry, distributing food boxes to those in need. Registration is encouraged to ensure adequate supplies. tvministriesok.com
🛒 Del City: Neighbors Helping Neighbors
Del City Church of Christ – Community Cupboard
📍 1901 Vickie Drive, Del City, OK 73115
📞 (405) 672-1311
🕒 Hours:
3rd Saturday of each month: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
The Community Cupboard at Del City Church of Christ offers food assistance to residents in need. delcitychurch.org
Sunnylane United Methodist Church – Food Pantry
📍 2020 S Sunnylane Rd, Del City, OK 73115
📞 (405) 677-0631
🕒 Hours:
1st and 3rd Saturdays of each month: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Sunnylane United Methodist Church provides a food pantry to assist local families in need. Heartline
Skyline Urban Ministry
📍 500 SE 15th Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73129
📞 (405) 632-2644
🕒 Hours:
Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
🥫 Midwest City: A Community That Cares
Mid-Del Food Pantry
📍 322 N Midwest Blvd, Midwest City, OK 73110
📞 (405) 732-3603
🕒 Hours:
Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM & 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Serving the community since 1984, Mid-Del Food Pantry provides safe and nutritious food to residents of eastern Oklahoma County during difficult times. Mid-Del Food Pantry
First Baptist Church of Midwest City – Care Ministry
📍 1112 S. Air Depot Blvd, Midwest City, OK 73110
📞 (405) 732-1511
🕒 Food Pantry Hours:
Wednesdays: 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM
The Care Ministry at First Baptist Church offers a food pantry to assist local families in need. fbcmwc.org
St. Christopher's Episcopal Church – Emergency Food Pantry
📍 800 Midwest Blvd, Midwest City, OK 73110
📞 (405) 732-4802
🕒 Hours:
By appointment; please call ahead
St. Christopher's Episcopal Church provides emergency food assistance to those facing unexpected hardships. stchristophersmwc.org
🥫 Choctaw: A Community That Cares
Eastern Oklahoma County Resource Center (EOCRC)
📍 1850 Commerce Drive, Choctaw, OK 73020
📞 (405) 297-4998
🕒 Pantry Hours:
Tuesdays & Thursdays: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
EOCRC serves communities including Choctaw, offering free food assistance to individuals and families in need. Their mission is to provide support with dignity, kindness, and compassion. No appointment is needed—just walk in. EOCRC
Lighthouse Family Church
📍 NE 23rd St and Triple X Rd, Choctaw, OK 73020
📞 (405) 390-3100
🕒 Pantry Hours:
Third Friday of each month: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Lighthouse Family Church offers a food pantry to residents of Choctaw and Harrah. Please bring proof of residence and income. Facebook
Choctaw Church of Christ
📍 14998 E Reno Ave, Choctaw, OK 73020
📞 (405) 390-8732
🕒 Pantry Hours:
By appointment; please call ahead
Choctaw Church of Christ provides a food pantry for local residents. Contact them directly to schedule an appointment. Food Pantries
🛒 Harrah: Neighbors Helping Neighbors
St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Church – St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry
📍 1576 Tim Holt Drive, Harrah, OK 73045
📞 (405) 454-2819
🕒 Pantry Hours:
First & Third Mondays: 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM
The St. Vincent de Paul food pantry at St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Church provides assistance to residents of Harrah, McLoud, Choctaw, and Newalla. Heartline
Harrah Ministry Center
📍 2185 Church Avenue, Harrah, OK 73045
📞 (405) 454-2441
🕒 Pantry Hours:
Mondays: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Thursdays: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
The Harrah Ministry Center offers food assistance to community members in need. They also accept clothing donations during designated hours. WhyHunger
SON Ministries – Harrah
📍 Harrah, OK 74857
SON Ministries operates a food pantry to meet the basic nutritional needs of neighbors in the Harrah area, fostering a sense of hope and support within the community. 7 CupsGuthrie
🥫 God's Food Bank
📍 402 W. Vilas Ave, Guthrie, OK 73044
📞 (405) 260-1412
🕒 Hours:
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday: Closed
Friday: Closed
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
God's Food Bank operates as a "client-choice" pantry, allowing individuals and families to select their groceries in a grocery store-style setting. Serving approximately 300 Logan County families each week, they focus on dignity and choice in food assistance. Facebook+1
👐 Hands of Jesus Food Pantry & Outreach Ministry
📍 2403 W. Noble Ave, Guthrie, OK 73044
📞 (405) 260-3440
🕒 Hours:
Thursday: 1:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Hands of Jesus Food Pantry & Outreach Ministry is a non-profit organization dedicated to serving the community by providing food assistance to those in need. They offer pre-boxed groceries to Logan County residents, emphasizing compassion and community support. Heartline+1
Bethany
🥫 Bethany: A Community That Cares
Bethany Church of Christ – Food Pantry
📍 3301 N Rockwell Ave, Bethany, OK 73008
📞 (405) 789-2923
🕒 Hours:
Tuesday & Thursday: 9:30 AM – 11:15 AM
Serving residents of the 73008 ZIP code, this pantry offers food assistance to individuals and families facing food insecurity. No appointment is necessary—just walk in during operating hours. Mental Health Network of CareCouncil Road Baptist Church – Food Pantry
📍 2900 N Council Rd, Bethany, OK 73008
📞 (405) 789-3175
🕒 Hours:
Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Open to all, this pantry provides essential food items to those in need. A photo ID is required for service. Oklahoma City Community CollegeFirst Baptist Church of Bethany – Food Pantry
📍 3800 N Mueller Ave, Bethany, OK 73008
📞 (405) 789-3312
🕒 Hours:
Monday & Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Residents can receive a bag of groceries per month, typically containing canned goods, pasta, rice, and other staples. A photo ID is required. Free FoodBritVil Community Food Pantry
📍 8717 N Western Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73114
📞 (405) 842-1275
🕒 Hours:
Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Serving Bethany residents, this pantry operates on a "client-choice" model, allowing individuals to select their groceries in a grocery store-style setting. Mental Health Network of Care🛒 Noble: Neighbors Helping Neighbors
First Baptist Church of Noble – Food Pantry
📍 330 E Chestnut St, Noble, OK 73068
📞 (405) 872-3529
🕒 Hours:
Monday & Thursday: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Serving residents of the Noble School District, this pantry provides food assistance to those in need. A photo ID is required. Mental Health Network of CareTwelve Corners Baptist Church – Food Pantry
📍 15601 E Etowah, Noble, OK 73068
📞 (405) 872-3529
🕒 Hours:
By appointment
This pantry offers food assistance to individuals and families in the Noble area. Contact the church directly to schedule an appointment. HeartlineThe Share Center – Food and Shelter, Inc.
📍 201 E Main St, Norman, OK 73069
📞 (405) 364-1420
🕒 Hours:
Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Serving residents of Noble County, this free grocery store and resource center allows guests to shop for groceries. A photo ID and proof of residency are required. Food and ShelterBlessing Box – Noble Community Initiative
📍 Various locations in Noble, OK
This initiative places free-standing food pantries throughout the community, allowing individuals to take what they need and leave what they can. 7 CupsBethany
Bethany Church of Christ / Local Bethany pantries
Example phone (Bethany Church of Christ): 405-789-2923
Notes: Bethany area churches and the Integris community resource list include pantries in Bethany.🥫 Food Assistance in Newcastle, OK
Tri City Hope Center
Location: 201 S Main St, Newcastle, OK 73065
Hours: Thursdays from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Services: Offers free food, clothing, hygiene items, and household goods to families in Newcastle, Blanchard, Tuttle, and surrounding areas. Proof of residency (e.g., utility bill) is required.
Contact: (405) 392-4242
Website:tricityhopecenter.org
Newcastle
United Methodist Church – Food Pantry
Location: 100 S Main St, Newcastle, OK 73065
Hours: 3rd Tuesday of the month from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM and 4th Tuesday of the month from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Services: Provides non-perishable staple items to supplement a family's pantry. Open to residents of Newcastle and surrounding communities.
Streams of Water Ministry – Food Pantry
Location: Alameda Church of Christ, 801 Alameda St, Newcastle, OK 73071
Hours: Every Wednesday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 2nd Saturday of the month from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and 4th Thursday of the month from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Services: Offers essential food assistance to families and individuals in need. Each household is welcome to utilize the services once per month.
Contact: (405) 321-0788
Helping Hands Food Program
Location: Newcastle, OK 73065
Contact: (405) 392-3524
Services: Provides food assistance to individuals and families facing hunger challenges in the local area.
Note: Specific operational hours and services may vary; contacting them directly is recommended.
Snow Hill Baptist Church – Food Pantry
Location: Tuttle, OK (serves Newcastle area)
Hours: Every Wednesday from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM
Services: Offers food and clothing assistance to those in need. Open to residents of the Newcastle area.
Website:findhelp.org
Tips When You Go
Bring photo ID, and if possible a piece of mail or utility bill showing your address.
Ask whether the pantry is drive-thru or client-choice (shopping style).
Get there early on distribution days — some sites run out quickly.
If you need regular help, ask about partner agencies that may provide ongoing support for utilities, rent, or SNAP application assistance.
🥫 Tips for Visiting Food Banks and Pantries
Visiting a food pantry for the first time can feel a little intimidating, but these tips will help make the experience smooth, respectful, and empowering.
1. Bring Identification
Most food banks require a photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or school ID).
Some also ask for proof of residence, like a utility bill or lease.
2. Know the Schedule
Food pantries often have specific days and hours.
Some are appointment-only, while others are walk-in.
Check the organization’s website or call ahead to avoid long waits.
3. Be Ready for Requirements
Some pantries serve only residents of certain ZIP codes or counties.
Others may ask for income verification or family size.
Don’t be embarrassed—these requirements help the pantry serve as many people as possible.
4. Make a List of Needs
If allowed to “shop” from a pantry, make a list of essentials:
Rice, pasta, canned goods, fresh produce (if available)
Dairy or protein items
Baby food, formula, or hygiene products
5. Bring Your Own Bags
Bring reusable grocery bags or boxes to carry your items.
Some pantries may have boxes, but it’s helpful to come prepared.
6. Be Respectful and Patient
Food pantries serve many people and can get busy.
Be courteous to volunteers and other clients—everyone is there to get support.
7. Ask Questions
Volunteers are there to help. Don’t hesitate to ask about:
Special dietary needs (gluten-free, vegetarian, etc.)
Extra services like clothing, baby supplies, or utility assistance
8. Plan Ahead
Some pantries provide monthly or weekly allotments.
Track the dates and plan your visits so you can maximize support.
9. Volunteer or Give Back
If you’re able, consider donating food or volunteering.
Giving back strengthens the community and creates a cycle of support.
10. Take Care of Yourself
Visiting a food pantry can be emotional. Remember: asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
💛 A Message from the Heart
In every community, our strength shines brightest when we come together to care for one another. Food pantries, churches, and local organizations are more than places to receive assistance—they’re reminders that no one stands alone.
As you reach out for support, know that you are met with compassion, respect, and dignity. As neighbors, volunteers, and friends, we each have the power to lift one another up—through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word.
Together, we can nurture a community where every table is full, every family feels supported, and every person knows they belong.
Here in Oklahoma, kindness and generosity are never in short supply. We’re known for picking ourselves up by our bootstraps, slapping our hands on our thighs, straightening our heads, and getting to work—not just for ourselves, but for our neighbors, our community, and our state.
Words That Inspire Us
Brad Henry
“Something called ‘the Oklahoma Standard’ became known throughout the world. It means resilience in the face of adversity. It means a strength and compassion that will not be defeated.”
“What unites Oklahomans today is what has always united us: Our unshakable faith. Our love of family and compassion for others. The unlimited promise of a hopeful future.”
Will Rogers
“When the Okies left Oklahoma and moved to California, they raised the average intelligence level in both states.”
A humorous yet poignant reminder of the resilience and ingenuity of Oklahomans, even in challenging times.Oklahoma State Motto
“Labor omnia vincit” – Labor conquers all things.
Reflecting the hardworking nature of our people, this phrase captures the perseverance that defines Oklahoma.“We have a kind of swagger that’s contagious and inspiring. Our swagger helps others feel adventurous and upbeat.”
Jennifer Hays‑Grudo
“We have a history of resilience in Oklahoma because we have a history of adversity. … we’re not doing the prevention work … but we have the capacity to respond flexibly and with strength and with support.”
Clara Luper
“My biggest challenge was within myself – to believe that I could continue in spite of conditions.”
