Who Can Get Help?
First, know that you are not alone. There are thousands of people in the Charlottesville area and surrounding counties who need help putting food on their tables.
Thankfully, there are caring people and organizations ready to help.
Anyone who asks for food can get it. There is enough food for everyone.
Every organization listed on this site provides food free of charge. And you will never be denied food because of your race, color, national origin, sex, religion, or a disability.
What Can I Expect When I Visit a Food Pantry?
You can expect to be treated with kindness and respect, and not judged because you need a helping hand.
All food pantries and soup kitchens in the Charlottesville area and surrounding counties will provide food if you ask.
However, some pantries offer additional food from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (called “USDA” or “TEFAP” food). To receive this food, you must meet certain income guidelines (see below). A few things to know about USDA food:
- You will be asked to share your monthly household income, but you will not be required to bring any documented proof of income.
- You will not be required to show an ID or proof of residency, but you must be living in the state of Virginia.
- You will be asked questions about the size of your household and information about your family.
- All of the information you provide will be kept confidential.
- Your households will be able to pick up USDA foods once per week.
- For non-USDA food, you may visit as many pantries as needed.
To see which pantries offer USDA food, and which offer food regardless of income, visit the Get Help page
What Can I Expect When I Visit a Food Pantry that Offers USDA Foods?
To see which pantries offer USDA food, and which offer food regardless of income, visit the Get Help page.
The Emergency Food Assistance (TEFAP) Household Income Guidelines 2024
250% of the 2024 poverty guidelines used to determine TEFAP eligibility in Virginia:
| Family Size | Weekly Income | Bi-Weekly Income | Monthly Income | Annual Income |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $725 | $1,569 | $3,138 | $37,650 |
| 2 | $983 | $2,130 | $4,259 | $51,100 |
| 3 | $1,242 | $2,690 | $5,380 | $64,550 |
| 4 | $1,500 | $3,250 | $6,500 | $78,000 |
| 5 | $1,759 | $3,811 | $7,621 | $91,450 |
| 6 | $2,018 | $4,371 | $8,742 | $104,900 |
| 7 | $2,276 | $4,932 | $9,863 | $118,350 |
| 8 | $2,535 | $5,942 | $10,984 | $131,800 |
*For family units of more than 8 members, add $259 weekly, $561 Bi-weekly, $1,121 monthly or $13,450 yearly for each additional member.
