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Nutrition Assistance Programs in Las Vegas & Southern Nevada


This is a picture of a man holding a box of food and pantry items at a food bank in Las Vegas Nevada

Finding food assistance in Las Vegas can feel overwhelming, but help is available. This definitive guide, curated by the Vegas4Locals team, offers a comprehensive and verified list of nutritional resources for residents in the Las Vegas Valley. We cover everything from immediate, free hot meals and 24/7 community fridges to local food pantries, senior meal delivery (Meals on Wheels), and how to apply for long-term government benefits, such as SNAP (food stamps) and WIC. To learn about eligibility, please visit the official websites and contact the local phone numbers provided below. Hours and services are subject to change, so it’s always recommended to call ahead.

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Government Assistance Programs (SNAP & WIC)

These are the primary government-run programs for long-term nutritional assistance. Local Nevada agencies handle applications and services.

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)

The SNAP program, formerly known as food stamps, helps low-income individuals and families purchase healthy food. Eligible participants receive monthly benefits on an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which can be used to purchase groceries at authorized stores. Applications in Nevada are processed by the Division of Welfare and Supportive Services (DWSS) through the Access Nevada online portal.

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)

WIC is a federally funded nutrition program specifically for pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum women, as well as infants and children up to age five, who are at nutritional risk. The program provides checks or an EBT card for specific healthy foods, plus nutrition education and breastfeeding support. In Las Vegas, this program is administered locally by the Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD) and Nevada Health Centers.

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Food Pantries & Community Markets

These organizations provide free groceries and supplies to individuals and families. Many operate by appointment or on specific distribution days. Always call ahead or check the website for the most current schedule and eligibility requirements.

Three Square Food Bank

As Southern Nevada’s main food bank, Three Square coordinates with a vast network of over 170 community partners (churches, non-profits, etc.). They do not typically provide food to individuals directly from their main warehouse. Their website features an interactive “Find Food” map, which is the most comprehensive and up-to-date resource for locating the nearest partner pantry or distribution site by zip code.

volunteers packing food bags at three square food bank pantry event with snacks and supplies in las vegas

The Just One Project

As one of Nevada’s largest food pantry providers, The Just One Project operates a “No-Cost Community Market.” This service functions like a real grocery store, allowing clients to browse and select their own food in a dignified, ‘client-choice’ setting. This service is available by appointment only. To schedule, please call their Client Services line first. They also run “Pop Up & Give” mobile pantries at various locations.

man holding grocery box at just one project mobile food bank event with volunteers and banner in las vegas
  • Service: No-Cost Community Market (By Appointment Only) & Mobile Pantries.
  • Recurring Event: “Pop Up & Give” Mobile Market at various locations. Check the website for the current schedule.
  • Address: 711 North Rancho Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89106 (Client Services Market)
  • Phone: (702) 462-2253 (Client Services)
  • Website: thejustoneproject.org
  • Hours: Call Mon-Fri (8:30 am – 2:00 pm) to schedule.

Lighthouse Charities

This organization provides essential nutritional assistance primarily through scheduled food box pickups, which can be booked online. Beyond immediate food relief, their mission focuses on refugee empowerment and job training, running programs like a bakery (Frosted Bakery), a farm (Rose Creek Farm), and community farmers’ markets that support their services.

group of volunteers at lighthouse charities nutritional assistance facility organizing supplies and towels in north las vegas

Lutheran Social Services of Nevada

Provides emergency food assistance from their client-choice pantry, which is set up like a small market to allow for dignity and choice. This service is available by appointment only. You must call the listed number (Press 1) to schedule a time to shop for groceries.

volunteers distributing bread and baked goods at lutheran social services of nevada food pantry event in las vegas parking lot

Casa de Luz

A faith-based organization offering walk-in food distribution multiple times a week. This service provides groceries to community members in need. You must bring a valid ID or other proof of residency to receive services.

group of smiling children outdoors representing casa de luz youth programs and community outreach in las vegas

Jewish Family Service Agency (JFSN)

“The Cupboard” at JFSN is a food pantry that serves the entire community, regardless of religion or background. They provide clients with pre-packed bags of non-perishable food and other necessities. This service is available by appointment only.

jfsa volunteer handing box of food bags to community member outside jewish family service agency in las vegas

Project 150

This organization is exclusively dedicated to serving homeless, displaced, and disadvantaged high school students in Clark County. Registered students can visit their “Betty’s Boutique” resource center to “shop” for free food, hygiene supplies, new clothing, and school items, providing critical support to help them stay in school.

group of project 150 volunteers posing indoors with banner supporting homeless and disadvantaged high school students in las vegas

The Solidarity Fridge

This is a 24/7 mutual aid community fridge operating under the simple motto: “Take what you need, leave what you can.” It provides a vital, low-barrier resource for anyone to access food and water immediately, at any time of day or night, with no questions asked or forms to fill out.

children exploring solidarity fridge community pantry in east las vegas with mural and stocked shelves of free food

Food Pantries for Veterans

This is a specific directory of food pantries and assistance programs in Southern Nevada dedicated to serving veterans and their families. The Nevada Department of Veterans Services offers this resource, listing multiple partner locations and contacts.

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Hot Meal Services

These organizations provide free, ready-to-eat meals daily to anyone in need. These are typically walk-in services with no ID required.

Las Vegas Rescue Mission

The Mission provides a free, hot community meal to anyone in need, regardless of age, every evening in its main dining hall. No pre-registration or ID is required for this meal service, making it a critical, low-barrier resource for daily nutrition.

An elderly man enjoying a Thanksgiving meal at the Las Vegas Rescue Mission

Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada

Offers a free hot community meal every day in their St. Vincent Lied Dining Facility for anyone who is hungry. They also operate a separate, low-cost “EBT/Cash Meal” service on weekdays for those who wish to purchase a meal.

The St. Vincent Lied Dining Facility food hall at Catholic Charities Las Vegas

The Salvation Army Southern Nevada

Provides free daily hot meals to the community at its main Owens Campus. As service times can occasionally change based on weather or holidays, it is always a good idea to call their main campus number to confirm the current schedule.

woman receiving food bag from salvation army volunteer in las vegas community assistance program

Friends in the Desert (at St. Timothy’s Church)

This important Henderson-based program serves free, hot, nutritious meals six days a week at St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church. This program is available to anyone in the Henderson area who needs it, providing these individuals with a safe and welcoming environment.

volunteers preparing salad and meals in kitchen for friends in the desert food assistance program at st timothys episcopal church in henderson nevada

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Senior Meal & Grocery Delivery

These services are specifically designed for homebound seniors aged 60 and older who are unable to shop or prepare meals for themselves.

Meals on Wheels (Catholic Charities)

As the primary free Meals on Wheels provider in the Las Vegas and North Las Vegas communities, Catholic Charities delivers balanced, frozen meals weekly directly to homebound seniors. This service is a crucial lifeline for seniors who are unable to shop or cook, and it also serves as a vital wellness check. Call to apply and confirm eligibility.

meals on wheels delivery truck operated by catholic charities las vegas with feeding nevada seniors signage and volunteer driver

Helping Hands of Vegas Valley

This organization offers the “James Seastrand Pantry Program” specifically for seniors (60+) who meet low-income requirements. This service includes both a client-choice, walk-in market (available Mon-Wed mornings) and a home grocery delivery program for eligible homebound seniors.

volunteers at helping hands of vegas valley in las vegas preparing senior food assistance supplies near pallet and suv

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How You Can Help

These vital community organizations rely on public support to operate. If you are in a position to help, here are the most effective ways to contribute to their missions.

Donate Funds

Monetary donations are often the most effective way to help, as food banks can leverage their purchasing power to acquire what is needed most. You can donate directly via their websites:

Donate Food & Goods

Food drives and direct donations are crucial for keeping pantries stocked. Most organizations need non-perishable food items, canned goods, and hygiene supplies. Please do not donate expired items or open packages.

  • General Food/Hygiene: Contact Las Vegas Rescue Mission, The Salvation Army, or The Just One Project to see their current needs lists.
  • Student Needs: Project 150 specifically requests items for high school students, including food, new clothing, school supplies, and hygiene products.
  • 24/7 Donations: The Solidarity Fridge accepts donations of fresh produce, water, and non-perishables directly at their fridge, 24/7.

Volunteer Your Time

Volunteers are the lifeblood of these organizations, helping to sort food, pack boxes, serve meals, and assist with deliveries. You can find volunteer opportunities at the links below:

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I apply for SNAP (food stamps) in Las Vegas?
A: The easiest and quickest way is online through the state portal at accessnevada.nv.gov. You may also call the Division of Welfare and Supportive Services (DWSS) at (702) 486-1646 for assistance.

Q: What’s the difference between a food pantry and a hot meal service?
A: A food pantry (like The Just One Project or LSSN) provides uncooked groceries (canned goods, produce, bread, etc.) that you take home to prepare. A hot meal service (such as Las Vegas Rescue Mission or Friends in the Desert) provides free, ready-to-eat meals—like lunch or dinner—on-site.

Q: Do I need an ID to get food?
A: It depends. Hot meal services (such as Las Vegas Rescue Mission) generally do not require ID and are open to everyone. Most food pantries (such as Casa de Luz or LSSN) require an ID or proof of residency to register for their services. Call ahead to confirm.

Q: I am a senior and homebound. Can I get food delivered?
A: Yes. The primary provider is Catholic Charities Meals on Wheels (for seniors 60+). Helping Hands of Vegas Valley also offers a grocery delivery program for eligible seniors. Contact them directly to apply and check eligibility requirements.

Q: Is there any way I can get food 24/7?
A: Yes. The Solidarity Fridge (5502 Blackthorn Dr) is a 24/7 community fridge based on mutual aid, open for food pickup at any time.

Q: Are these resources only for homeless people?
A: No. Many of these resources, especially food pantries and government programs like SNAP and WIC, are for any individual or family who meets the low-income requirements, regardless of housing status. Hot meal services are typically open to all, while senior programs are age- and mobility-specific.

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This webpage is for informational purposes only. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please visit the official websites provided or contact the respective offices directly.

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