Center for Essential Needs

Food Resources By County

We recognize that the current government shutdown and delays in CalFresh/SNAP benefits have created added stress and uncertainty for many. Fresno State is aware of these challenges and remains committed to providing support and linkage to vital resources.

Fresno County Department of Social Services — Assistance with CalFresh, Medi-Cal, and emergency programs.
2-1-1 Fresno County – Call or text 211 for 24/7 access to food, housing, and financial resources.
Central California Food Bank
Food Distribution Map & Calendar
Groceries2Go
First Fruits Market – Fresno’s first free grocery store!
Fresno County Department of Social Services (DSS) – Offers programs such as CalFresh, emergency cash aid, housing & homeless assistance, Medi-Cal, etc.
Food Assistance – CalFresh resources and local food bank locations via the DSS food resources page
Housing Assistance – The Housing Assistance section via DSS covers temporary emergency housing and support for risk of homelessness.

Kings Community Action Organization (KCAO) – Food boxes, nutrition programs, transitional and student housing, and utility assistance. Phone: 559-415-7230
Lemoore Christian Aid – Grassroots food pantry and clothing support for local residents. 224 N. Lemoore Ave, Lemoore | Phone: 559-924-2229
Kings County Homelessness Collaborative (KCHC) – Centralized access for shelter and homelessness prevention.
Proteus, Inc. – Employment, rental, and utility assistance. Phone: 559-583-0155
Central Valley Opportunity Center (CVOC) – Energy assistance and supportive programs for low-income residents.
United Way Kings County – Emergency financial and community support programs.
Kings County Human Services Agency (HSA) – CalFresh, CalWORKs, Medi-Cal, and general assistance. Phone: 1-877-410-8813
CalFresh for Students – Monthly grocery benefits for eligible students.

Madera County Department of Social Services – Administers food (CalFresh), cash aid (General Assistance), housing supports.
Housing/homeless Assistance – Homeless Engagement for Living Program (HELP Center) supports outreach and coordinated housing services in Madera County.
Basic Needs/Resource Guide – The “Helpful Resources in Your Community” list provides links for food banks, CalFresh, housing programs, etc.

Merced County Human Services Agency (HSA) – Offers programs including CalFresh (food benefits), CalWORKs (cash aid for families), Medi-Cal, and homeless/housing support.
United Way of Merced County / 211 Merced County – 24/7 free hotline and online service connecting residents to food banks, shelter/housing assistance, utility/rent help, and more.
Merced County Community Action Agency (MCCAA) – Provides housing & shelter services (e.g., D Street Homeless Shelter, permanent supportive housing), utility bill assistance, and WIC nutrition services.
Food Resources Directory – A list of local food pantries, distributions, and farmer’s market opportunities in Merced County (including CalFresh-EBT accepted).

Tulare County Health & Human Services Agency (HHSA) – Offers programs including CalFresh, CalWORKs, general relief and more.
United Way of Tulare County – Their “211 Tulare County” resource line connects residents to food, housing, utilities, etc. (Dial 211 or 1-800-283-9323)
Basic Needs & Food Pantries – The guide from Kaweah Health lists many local food pantries, shelters, housing support.