Food is Medicine: Eating Well With Free and Low-Cost Food Programs
If you’re having trouble affording food for yourself or your family during cancer treatment, follow these steps to get help:
You’re not alone! 59% of the people with cancer we help struggle to afford food
Talk to your care team
Let your social worker, nurse navigator, or another member of your care team know. Your treatment center may have:
✓ An on-site food pantry
✓ Partnerships with local food banks or nonprofits that provide free groceries or meals
Apply for SNAP benefits
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (also known as SNAP or food stamps) helps people with low incomes pay for groceries. To find out if you’re eligible and apply, visit: www.fns.usda.gov/snap/ state-directory.
Visit Family Reach’s Financial Resource Center
At familyreach.org/gethelp, you can:
✓ Enter your zip code to find local and national support programs
✓ Connect one-on-one with a Resource Navigator
✓ Access financial tips and guidance
✓ Work with your healthcare provider to apply for available financial assistance
Reach out to local religious organizations
Some churches, mosques, synagogues, and other religious groups offer food pantries or host community meals that are open to anyone in need, regardless of their religious affiliation.
Call 211
211 is a free, confidential service that connects you to local support, including food assistance programs.
Stretch your grocery budget
Shop on the day new grocery flyers come out to get deals from both the old and new coupons. Sign up for your store’s loyalty card to access discounts and additional savings.
