COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — For all those in need of food, assistance, and resources around this time of the government shutdown, here’s a list of resources that may help.
Broad Street Food Pantry
- Location: 760 E Broad Street in downtown Columbus
- Doors open early, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM.
- Volunteers line up boxes with produce, dairy, and pantry staples.
- No paperwork needed
NNEMAP Food Pantry
- Location: near the University District, 677 E 11th Ave
- Serves hundreds of local families every week.
- Open Monday and Tuesday mornings, they offer groceries, baby supplies, and even delivery for seniors or those who can’t get out.
Mid-Ohio Food Collective
- Location: 3960 Brookham Dr, Grove City
- Mid-Ohio supplies more than 600 partner organizations in the region.
- Open 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday
Worthington Resource Pantry
- Location: 500 Schrock Rd
- The Worthington Pantry lets people shop by choice, picking what fits their family.
- This location also delivers to those who can’t leave home
- Hours are from Saturday, 10-12 p.m., Monday, 10–2 p.m., Wednesday, 3–7 p.m., and Thursday, 3–5p.m.
Lutheran Social Services (LSS) Pantries
- LSS runs two pantries and mobile food markets
- Visit lssnetworkofhope.org for specific hours and numbers to call based on your county.
Southside Community Ministries
- Location: 225 E Gates St, SSCM serves the South Side neighborhoods.
- Though not open weekly, you can find their next opening times here.
- Make sure to bring an ID, as they will check your ZIP code for eligibility. Call first if you’re unsure.
Dublin Food Pantry
- Location: 6608 Dublin Center Dr, for all Dublin City School District families
- Hours are Monday, 5–7PM, Tuesday (Veterans Day), 10AM–12PM (hours might differ), Wednesday, 4–6:30PM, and Thursday, 10AM–12PM.
Hilliard Food Pantry and Share Closet
- Location: 3711 Main St, with their Share Closet at 4410 Cemetery Rd.
- Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays have various times that can fit someone’s schedule.
Licking County & Newark, multiple pantries
- The Food Pantry Network of Licking County coordinates dozens of smaller pantries.
- Call (740) 273-0006 if you live in Newark or Heath to find one nearest you.
Salvation Army Pantries
- There are various locations for the Salvation Army to also assist in grocery, clothing, and supplies needs.
- One location at 250 E Main St is open Sunday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with Sunday hours 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
St. Vincent de Paul, local churches, and neighborhood ministries
- The St. Vincent de Paul Society offers many resources for those in need of food, employment, or housing.
- Dial 211; the United Way helpline connects people to a food resource finder, caregiver resources, and disaster recovery.
Before You Go
Bring an ID (if you have one), some bags, and patience! If you are also in possible need of diapers, hygiene kits, or pet food, don’t hesitate to ask for those too.
The City of Columbus also has a compiled list of food pantries across Central Ohio here; make sure to call the location ahead of time to confirm hours and eligibility…