COLUMBUS, Ohio — If you’re facing food insecurity during the government shutdown, there are several resources available to help you out.
Broad Street Food Pantry
- Location: 760 E Broad Street, downtown Columbus
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM
- What They Offer: Boxes of produce, dairy, and pantry staples. No paperwork needed.
NNEMAP Food Pantry
- Location: 677 E 11th Ave, near the University District
- Hours: Open Monday and Tuesday mornings
- Services: Groceries, baby supplies, and delivery for seniors.
Mid-Ohio Food Collective
- Location: 3960 Brookham Dr, Grove City
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM
- Note: Supplies over 600 partner organizations across the region.
Worthington Resource Pantry
- Location: 500 Schrock Rd
- Shopping: Customers can pick what fits their family.
- Hours: Saturday 10 AM–12 PM, Monday 10 AM–2 PM, Wednesday 3 PM–7 PM, Thursday 3 PM–5 PM. Delivery available.
Lutheran Social Services (LSS) Pantries
- They run two pantries and mobile food markets.
Southside Community Ministries
- Location: 225 E Gates St
- Check their website for opening times: SSCM Food Pantry.
- Bring an ID to check eligibility.
Dublin Food Pantry
- Location: 6608 Dublin Center Dr
- Hours vary across the week. Check their schedule.
Hilliard Food Pantry and Share Closet
- Location: 3711 Main St, with a secondary location for clothing needs at 4410 Cemetery Rd.
- Various open hours on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday.
Licking County & Newark Pantries
- The Food Pantry Network coordinates several smaller pantries.
- Call (740) 273-0006 for nearby locations.
Salvation Army Pantries
- Multiple locations assist with groceries, clothing, and other needs.
- One is located at 250 E Main St, open Sunday to Friday.
St. Vincent de Paul and Local Ministries
- Offers a range of resources for food, employment, or housing
- For assistance, call 211 or refer to the United Way’s helpline.
Before you visit, bring an ID if you have one, bags for your food, and a little patience. If you need diapers, hygiene products, or pet food, feel free to ask.
A recent study by Feeding America showed that in 2022, over 38 million people faced hunger in the U.S. This situation often gets worse during times of financial insecurity. Local charities are stepping up to help those in need, demonstrating the community’s spirit of support.
In Columbus, families in need don’t have to feel alone. Many organizations are here to lend a hand. If you want to explore more options, check out this list compiled by the City of Columbus. Always call ahead to confirm hours and eligibility. Remember, everyone deserves a meal.
