Food Resources
Free School Meal Boxes
All families are invited to pick up free school meal boxes for their children. School meal boxes contain five breakfasts and five lunches and meet Minneapolis Public Schools Culinary & Wellness Services’ (MPS CWS) high standards for nutrition and quality ingredients. In every box, children will find school favorites, whole grains, fresh fruits, and vegetables. Milk is offered on the side, up to ten milk cartons per box.
All youth 18 & under can participate.
Youth do not need to be enrolled in MPS.
Youth, parents, or siblings can pick up one box per child, per week.
Pick up at any of the 29 school sites - no registration required.
All sites are open Monday through Friday, most from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and a few have extended hours of 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Have you filled out your Lunch Form?
Be sure to complete the MPS Application for Educational Benefits
The YMCA is partnering with Loaves & Fishes and UnitedHealth Group to serve free healthy meals to families in need. Families may pick up food from Noon – 2pm Monday through Friday at select YMCAs and choose a meal package for a family of four including a protein, vegetables and other fresh food. Also, lunch bags with a sandwich, snacks and fruit are available. Meals are currently available at the Y locations listed at the link below.
Families may pick up food from Noon – 1pm Monday through Friday at select YMCAs and choose a meal package for a family of four including a protein, vegetables and other fresh food. Also, lunch bags with a sandwich, snacks and fruit are available. Meals are currently available at the Y locations listed below. Check back, as new locations will be added soon.
Due to COVID-19, many Minnesota families face difficult times. If you or someone you know has been laid off from work or seen work hours cut, help may be available. For help applying or additional food resources, contact the Food Helpline at 1-888-711-1151.
A comprehensive list of food assistance programs provides full descriptions, pictures, hours, volunteer information, etc.
Meals on Wheels is able to provide meals to anyone over the age of 18 who lacks access to healthy food due to the COVID-19 Pandemic
Thanks to the CARES Act, anyone who does not qualify for meals through another program is eligible to receive meals from Meals on Wheels at no cost through Dec. 31.
Free delicious and nutritious hot meals prepared fresh by experienced chefs and served in our family-friendly community cafes.
Access to additional resources available to individuals and families if needed. Days and times vary. Call your neighborhood center for details.
The WIC Program:
Is a Nutrition and Breastfeeding program
Helps eligible pregnant women, new mothers, babies and young children eat well, learn about nutrition, and stay healthy.
Provides nutrition education and counseling, nutritious foods, and referrals to health and other social services.