If you're struggling to put food on the table, Texas has programs that can help. Some provide a monthly benefit to buy groceries, others give you free food right away while you get back on your feet.
Texas Health Help is a community nonprofit. We don't hand out food, but we share clear information and help families across rural and underserved Texas connect to the right food programs — for free.
What Food Help Is Available?
Depending on your situation, you may be able to use:
- SNAP (food stamps) — a monthly benefit to buy groceries
- WIC — healthy foods and nutrition help for moms and young children
- Local food banks and pantries — free groceries with no long wait
- School meal programs — free or reduced-price meals for kids
- 2-1-1 Texas — a free helpline that connects you to local food help
Want the full step-by-step on food stamps? Read our How to Apply for SNAP in Texas guide.
Who May Qualify?
You may qualify for food assistance if you are:
- A family or individual with limited income
- A pregnant woman, new mother, or parent of a child under 5 (WIC)
- A senior on a fixed income
- Out of work or facing a financial emergency
- Anyone needing food today — food banks serve all who ask
Not sure if you qualify? Reach out — we'll help you check your options for free.
How to Get Food Help
- 1
Decide how urgent it is
If you need food today, head to a food bank or pantry. For ongoing help, apply for SNAP or WIC.
- 2
Apply for SNAP online or by phone
Apply at YourTexasBenefits.com or call 2-1-1. Most families get a decision within 30 days, or faster in an emergency.
- 3
Sign up for WIC if you have young children
Contact your local WIC clinic to schedule an appointment for nutrition help and healthy foods.
- 4
Find a food bank near you
Dial 2-1-1 or use the Feeding Texas directory to locate the closest free pantry.
- 5
Ask for help if you're stuck
Our community navigators can help you apply and find food programs — free and confidential.
What to Have Ready
To apply for SNAP or WIC quickly, it helps to have:
- Photo ID for the head of household
- Social Security numbers for household members
- Proof of income (pay stubs, benefit letters)
- Proof of address (a bill or lease)
- Rent, utility, and childcare costs
- Immunization and medical info (for WIC)
Helpful Texas Resources
Need help getting food?
Tell us a little about your situation and a community navigator will help you apply for food benefits and find local food help — at no cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
What food assistance programs are available in Texas?+
The main programs are SNAP (food stamps), which helps families buy groceries; WIC, which supports pregnant women, new mothers, and young children; and local food banks and pantries that provide free food right away.
How do I apply for SNAP food benefits in Texas?+
You can apply for SNAP online at YourTexasBenefits.com, by phone at 2-1-1, or in person at a Texas Health and Human Services office. Our navigators can walk you through it for free.
What is the difference between SNAP and WIC?+
SNAP gives a monthly benefit to buy most groceries for the whole household. WIC is for pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and children under 5, and provides specific healthy foods, nutrition help, and breastfeeding support.
Can I get free food today if I can't wait for SNAP?+
Yes. Food banks and pantries offer free groceries with no long application. Dial 2-1-1 or contact us to find the nearest food pantry in your area.
Do I have to be a U.S. citizen to get food help?+
Many food banks and pantries serve everyone regardless of immigration status. SNAP and WIC have their own eligibility rules. Our navigators can help you understand which programs you may qualify for.
Does Texas Health Help give out food?+
No. We are a community nonprofit that helps you find and connect to the right food programs. We do not distribute food or approve benefits, but we will help you navigate your options for free.
Disclaimer: Texas Health Help (Community Health Access Hub Texas) is a community nonprofit, not a government agency or food provider. We do not approve benefits or distribute food. Program eligibility is determined by the State of Texas and local providers. This page is general educational information.
Looking for more help? Browse all Texas Health Help resources.