How to Get Enough Food Each Month in Arlington, VA
You're not alone. Here's how to get consistent food support.
Start Here — Your Checklist
What Should I Do This Week?
Four simple actions you can take right now:
Your Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1
Randolph Elementary Outdoor Food Pantry
If your family has students at Randolph Elementary, start here! The pantry runs every month, year-round. Dates are announced through ParentSquare and the Principal's weekly message.
Just show up when the date is announced — no sign-up or paperwork needed. Pick up fresh produce, pantry staples, and more. This is the easiest first step for Randolph families.
Step 2
Apply for SNAP and WIC
SNAP gives you money on a card to buy groceries. WIC helps with food for pregnant women, babies, and kids under 5.
Apply online at CommonHelp (commonhelp.virginia.gov) or call your local office. The process takes about 20 minutes. You can also visit the Arlington DHS office for in-person help.
Step 3
Use Free School Meals
All Arlington public school students can get free breakfast and lunch every school day.
Your child just needs to show up — no forms needed at most schools. Ask the school office if you're not sure. This saves a family hundreds of dollars each month.
Step 4
Visit a Food Pantry Weekly
AFAC (Arlington Food Assistance Center) is the main pantry in Arlington. They give free groceries every week.
AFAC has locations across Arlington. Bring an ID and proof of address for your first visit. After that, just show your card. No appointment needed.
Step 5
Find Free Meal Sites
Several locations serve free hot meals — no questions asked.
Check the Capital Area Food Bank website for meal sites near you. Many churches and community centers also serve meals on specific days.
Step 6
Stretch Your Benefits Further
Farmers markets accept SNAP and often double your money. SHARE food packages save up to 50%.
At participating farmers markets, your SNAP dollars can be matched — spend $20, get $40 worth of fresh produce. Ask about the Fresh Match program.
Step 7
Summer & Kids Programs
SUN Bucks gives families $120 per child for summer groceries. Summer meal sites serve free food to all kids.
SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) is automatic if your child gets free school meals. Summer meal sites are open to ALL children under 18 — no sign-up needed.
Step 8
Seniors & Special Populations
Extra programs exist for seniors, people with disabilities, and homebound individuals.
Seniors 60+ can get home-delivered meals through Meals on Wheels Arlington. CSFP provides monthly food boxes for seniors. Call the Aging & Disability office at 703-228-1700.
Step 9
Regional Backup — Nearby Counties
If Arlington resources are limited, Fairfax and Alexandria have food programs too.
Fairfax County has an extensive food access map online. Alexandria DCHS offers additional benefits. You can use food programs in neighboring counties.
Your Monthly Food Plan
Use this week-by-week system to make sure your family always has enough food.
Week 1 — Pantry Visit
Visit AFAC or your nearest pantry. Stock up on basics: rice, beans, canned goods, and fresh produce.
Week 2 — Use SNAP/WIC
Shop with your SNAP card for fresh items: meat, dairy, fruits, and vegetables. Use WIC for milk, eggs, and cereal.
Week 3 — Farmers Market
Visit a farmers market that accepts SNAP. Use Fresh Match to double your produce dollars.
Week 4 — Plan Ahead
Check your pantry, use meal sites if needed, and plan your next month's schedule.
Simple Rules to Remember
Quick Contacts — Call for Help
Helpful Resource Links
Our Privacy Promise
At pickup, the only information we ask for is your student's name — never SSNs, financial records, or immigration status. We don't keep a separate family roster either: we check names for that day's distribution only, and share each month's date through ParentSquare instead of a sign-up list.
Your family's privacy is our highest priority.
Pantry Staples Recipes
Simple, nutritious meals you can make with common pantry items like beans, rice, and canned greens.
Rice & Beans Bowl
Season rice and black beans with cumin, garlic, and a squeeze of lime. Top with any veggies you have.
Bean & Veggie Soup
Combine canned beans, diced tomatoes, and mixed veggies in a pot. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
Sautéed Greens & Rice
Sauté canned greens with garlic and olive oil. Serve over warm rice for a quick, hearty meal.
Lentil Stew
Simmer lentils with onion, carrots, and canned tomatoes. Add cumin and coriander for extra flavor.
Veggie Fried Rice
Stir-fry leftover rice with canned vegetables, soy sauce, and a scrambled egg if available.
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Last updated: 2026-03-24