More than 1 in 4 people in Los Angeles County struggle with food insecurity, meaning they don't always know where their next meal will come from (Los Angeles Regional Food Bank). If you or your family need help affording food or clothing, you're not alone and judgment-free support is available across the county.
This guide covers where to find free food, how to apply for CalFresh, where to get clothing assistance, and how LA Community Aid (LACA) can help.
Where to Find Free Food in Los Angeles
Food pantries. The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank's Pantry Locator lets you enter your address to find the nearest pantry, along with hours and what to bring. Distribution times and available items vary by site, so it's worth calling ahead.
Free meals. Organizations such as Union Rescue Mission serve free prepared meals, breakfast, lunch, and dinner, to individuals and families in need, with no eligibility screening required for a meal.
211 LA County. Call 2-1-1 or visit 211la.org to search for food pantries, meal programs, and other assistance near you. Hours and offerings change often, so 211 is the most current source if a listing seems out of date.
How to Apply for CalFresh (SNAP) in Los Angeles
CalFresh is California's monthly food assistance program for eligible low-income households, loaded onto an EBT card you use like a debit card at grocery stores and many farmers' markets. You can apply three ways:
• Online through BenefitsCal, the state's official application portal.
• By phone at the LA County DPSS Customer Service Center, (866) 613-3777 (Mon–Fri, 7:30am–5:30pm).
• In person at a DPSS office near you.
After you apply, expect a phone or in-person interview before approval. Also ask about WIC (for pregnant women, new parents, and children under 5) and senior nutrition programs — 211 can point you to the right office.
Where to Get Free Clothing in Los Angeles
Several Los Angeles organizations run clothing closets and giveaways for adults and children:
• NCJW|LA's Clothing Assistance Program (CAP) provides vouchers usable at partner thrift stores, so families can choose their own sizes and items with dignity.
• Union Rescue Mission and similar shelters distribute donated clothing, shoes, and seasonal items such as coats and blankets.
• The Salvation Army and St. Vincent de Paul of Los Angeles, along with local churches, also host periodic clothing drives, availability varies, so call ahead.
If you're not sure where to start, 211 LA County can point you to the nearest clothing assistance program.
How LACA can Help
LA Community Aid (LACA) is a Los Angeles nonprofit combating food insecurity and homelessness. The way in is LACA's Community Health Worker (CHW) program: a CHW is your dedicated point of contact, connecting you not just to free groceries and clothing, but to help with utilities and other pressing needs because these things tend to go hand in hand.
Community Health Worker (CHW) Program
To qualify, you'll need Medi-Cal through a health plan LACA is contracted with (call to confirm if your plan qualifies). Enrolling requires a valid photo ID and a copy of your health plan card. Once enrolled, CHW clients can receive free groceries and available clothing. Over the years, LACA has served thousands of families and rescued hundreds of thousands of pounds of food for the community. Right now, only groceries and clothing are available exclusively through the CHW program.
LACA is also working toward opening a full food pantry to the public once its food supply is established. Call or text (213) 325-5056 to be notified when it opens.
How to get started
1. Submit LACA's Get Help form to enroll in the CHW program.
2. LACA will call you to schedule an appointment.
3. Visit LACA at 1096 N. Western Avenue, Suite 106, Los Angeles, CA 90029; CHW clients choose the groceries they want and can browse the available clothing.
Contact: Call or text (213) 325-5056, or email office@lacommunityaid.org. LACA will respond as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What food assistance programs are available in Los Angeles?
Free food pantries and meal programs (findable through the LA Food Bank pantry locator or by calling 211), plus the government-run CalFresh (SNAP) benefit, which provides monthly grocery funds to eligible households.
How can I get free clothing in Los Angeles?
Organizations including LACA (currently for CHW clients), NCJW|LA's Clothing Assistance Program, and Union Rescue Mission offer free or voucher-based clothing. Most ask for a brief intake form; requirements vary by organization.
Who qualifies for food and clothing assistance?
Generally, low-income individuals and families, seniors, and people experiencing homelessness. Some programs ask for proof of income or residency. Please see "How LACA Can Help" above for LACA's specific CHW eligibility requirements.
How do I sign up for LACA's grocery and clothing distribution program?
See "How LACA Can Help" above for the full enrollment steps and it starts with LACA's Get Help form.
What other programs does LACA have?
Beyond CHW-connected groceries and clothing, LACA runs an annual Christmas toy giveaway (separate registration required) and court-ordered community service and labor programs. Call or text (213) 325-5056 for current program details.
Is documentation required to receive help?
It depends on the program. Please see "How LACA Can Help" above for LACA's requirements. Government programs like CalFresh require more formal proof of income and residency.
Need help right now? Call 211 for the most current list of food and clothing resources near you, or contact LACA directly at (213) 325-5056.
Contact LACA Directly:
Phone / Text: (213) 325-5056
Immediate Referral: Call 2-1-1