Running low on groceries before payday? You’re not alone, and Arlington has multiple locations giving away free food this week – no judgment, no lengthy applications for most spots.
Whether you need a monthly box to stretch your budget or an emergency supply to get through the week, Arlington organizations are ready to help. Some require appointments, others work first-come-first-served, and a few are specifically designed for seniors or pet owners.
Get Monthly Groceries Through Arlington Charities
Arlington Charities hands out supplemental groceries plus hygiene and household items once per month. You’ll need to complete an application on their website first, then schedule your appointment.
They’re open Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Find them at 811 Secretary Drive.
But here’s the better option if you need food fast: Arlington Charities runs Mobile Food Markets that don’t require appointments or income verification. Anyone from any ZIP code can show up.
The second Saturday of each month, head to St. Andrews United Methodist Church at 2045 SE Green Oaks Boulevard. Distribution starts at 8:30 a.m. and runs until the food’s gone. Lines form early.
The third Thursday of each month, they set up at Tarrant County College Southeast Campus in Parking Lot H, 2100 Southeast Parkway. Distribution starts at 9 a.m.
The fourth Thursday brings the food truck to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at 1500 California Lane, starting at 9 a.m.
All three mobile markets work the same way: first come, first served. Show up early because once the food runs out, distribution ends for that month.
Mission Arlington Feeds Families Six Days a Week
Mission Arlington provides enough food to last three to five days based on your family size. They’re open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 210 W. South Street.
No complex application process. Just show up during their hours and they’ll help your family eat this week.
Thursday Evening Option at Shepherd’s Pantry
If weekday mornings don’t work with your schedule, Shepherd’s Pantry opens Thursday evenings from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at 725 E. Lamar Boulevard, next door to the main Shepherd of Life church.
Walk inside the ministry office building, fill out your preferences on an order form, and volunteers will walk you through a simple registration. You’ll need to register once per year. The pantry closes annually on Thanksgiving but operates every other Thursday evening.
Central Arlington Residents: Water From the Rock
If you live in central Arlington (parts of zip codes 76010, 76011, 76012, or 76013), Water From the Rock offers drive-through food distribution Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
You’ll need picture ID and proof of income from all sources. Everyone picking up food must live in the central Arlington zip codes and fall within low to moderate income levels.
Seniors Over 60: Monthly USDA Boxes
The Tarrant Area Food Bank runs a Commodity Supplemental Food Program specifically for seniors aged 60 and older. Qualifying seniors receive a monthly USDA box with shelf-stable items including canned fruits and vegetables, cereal, canned meats, juice, and a block of cheese.
Income guidelines apply, but if you don’t qualify for the senior program, you can still visit any local food pantry during regular hours. Check the application process at tafb.org/senior-box-program.
Find More Food Pantries Near You
The Tarrant Area Food Bank distributes to pantries and nonprofits across North Texas. Visit tafb.org/find-food-main and type your address to locate pantries closest to your home.
Always call ahead to confirm hours before driving over. Pantry schedules change, and you want to make sure they’re open when you arrive.
Don’t Forget Your Pets
Don’t Forget to Feed Me (DF2FM) supplies pet food through local partner agencies. They don’t hand out pet food directly to individuals – you’ll need to visit a partner location like Arlington Charities to confirm eligibility and get distribution details.
The program helps pet owners keep their animals fed and in their homes. It’s not intended for feral colonies, strays, or foster situations.
The Real Talk
Food insecurity doesn’t discriminate. People who earn too much to qualify for SNAP benefits still struggle to afford groceries. Families hit unexpected expenses and suddenly need help making it to the next paycheck. Seniors on fixed incomes stretch every dollar.
These programs exist because communities recognize that reality. The Mobile Food Markets specifically target that gap – people who work but still can’t afford enough food for their household.
You don’t need to hit rock bottom before asking for help. If you’re choosing between groceries and keeping the lights on, or skipping meals so your kids can eat, these resources are for you. That’s literally why they exist.
Most locations operate rain or shine, so dress for the weather if you’re attending an outdoor mobile market. Bring bags or boxes to carry your groceries. Some markets offer produce, so having a cooler helps if you’re not heading straight home.
The food might include fresh produce, canned goods, frozen items, bread, or boxed meals depending on what each organization received that week. Selections vary, but every box helps stretch your budget further.
Contact Information
City of Arlington Housing Directory For the complete list of food and housing resources: arlingtontx.gov/City-Services/Housing/Housing-Directory
Arlington Charities 811 Secretary Drive, Arlington, TX 76015 817-275-1511 arlingtoncharities.org
Mission Arlington 210 W. South Street, Arlington, TX 76010 817-277-6620 missionarlington.org
Shepherd’s Pantry 725 E. Lamar Boulevard, Arlington, TX 76011 817-460-0631 bluelamb.org
Water From the Rock Central Arlington locations Check website for current contact information
Tarrant Area Food Bank tafb.org Use online tool to find pantries near you
Don’t Forget to Feed Me (Pet Food) dontforgettofeedme.org/get-help Distributed through Arlington Charities and other partners
