Finding access to affordable or free food is a growing concern for many. Whether you’re facing temporary hardship or looking for ways to stretch your budget, knowing where to find resources is essential. This guide provides a detailed overview of different programs and organizations that offer free or low-cost food options.
Local Organizations and Programs Offering Food Assistance:
Several community organizations are dedicated to providing food assistance to those in need. These programs often operate on a weekly or monthly basis, offering a variety of fresh produce, pantry staples, and prepared meals.
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The 3000 Club’s Market on the Move: Every Saturday from 8-10 a.m., the 3000 Club distributes pre-packed boxes containing up to 60 pounds of produce at its Market on the Move. This event takes place at the 3000 Club warehouse, located at 4515 E. 22nd St. A $10 donation is requested for each box, payable in cash only. The organization posts a list of available produce on its Facebook page every Friday afternoon. This is a great way to get a large quantity of fresh fruits and vegetables at a minimal cost.
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Borderlands Produce Rescue’s Produce on Wheels-With Out Waste (POWOW): Borderlands Produce Rescue offers up to 70 pounds of produce for $12 through its POWOW program. The locations change weekly, so check their schedule for the most up-to-date information. This program focuses on rescuing surplus produce and making it available to the public at affordable prices.
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Santa Cruz River Farmer’s Market: The Santa Cruz River Farmer’s Market operates as a drive-up market every Thursday from 8-10 a.m. It’s located in the empty lot across the street from Mercado San Agustin, at 100 S. Avenida del Convento. From Congress Street, head south on Linda Avenue and west on Calle de los Higos. Market staff will assist you upon arrival. The market accepts cash, debit, credit, and SNAP benefits/food stamps. They also offer the double-up food bucks match for SNAP/food stamps. Check their website to see what items will be available each week.
Restaurants and Markets Offering Affordable Food Options:
Several local businesses have stepped up to provide affordable food options during times of need. These include online markets, curbside pickup services, and discounted grocery items.
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Hotel Congress Online Market: Hotel Congress offers an online market where you can order hard-to-find items, produce, pantry essentials, refrigerated food, beer, wine, and liquor. Items include toilet paper, rice, eggs, bread, potatoes, and ground beef. Orders are due before 1 p.m. on Sundays and Wednesdays, and pickup is on Mondays and Thursdays between 3-6 p.m.
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5 Points Market & Restaurant: Located at 756 S Stone Ave., 5 Points Market & Restaurant offers curbside pickup and limited delivery on produce, pantry essentials, and grocery items, including milk, eggs, baking items, and household goods. Check their website for a full list of available items.
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Merit Foods Arizona: This locally-owned food distribution company offers curbside pickup for foods like meat, produce, beans, and canned goods at its warehouse, located at 1471 W. Commerce Court. You can place your order by phone at 884-8232 or in person. Orders can be picked up Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. A catalog of items is available on their website, and prices vary. You can find updates and more information on the company’s Facebook page.
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Merchant’s Garden: Merchant’s Garden operates a drive-up produce stand where you can pick up freshly-harvested hydroponic greens, including butter, green leaf, and red leaf lettuces, bok choy, green leaf, and red leaf salanova for $8 per bag (includes three heads of lettuce). The produce stand is open Monday-Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 555 S. Tucson Blvd. They accept debit or credit cards only. A 25 percent discount is available for military personnel, health professionals, students at TUSD, University of Arizona and Pima Community College, and individuals who use food stamps.
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Forbes Meat Company: This local butcher delivers boxes of locally-raised sustainable meat directly to your door. You can purchase a large meat box and store it in your freezer. Check their Facebook page for more information, and then text your order and questions to 520-474-2714.
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LemonShark Poke: LemonShark Poke, located at 2501 E. Grant Road, sells several food staples and household items, including flour, sugar, white rice, spaghetti noodles and sauce, fajita chicken, shredded cheese, and bleach. Items can be picked up at the restaurant or delivered to your home. You can pre-pay for items over the phone by calling 520-771-6681. The restaurant also offers a free roll of toilet paper to anyone over 60 years old with no purchase necessary, and a free roll of toilet paper with every poke bowl purchase upon request.
Conclusion:
Accessing free or low-cost food options is possible through various community programs and local businesses. By utilizing the resources outlined above, you can ensure that you and your family have access to nutritious meals. Check the websites and social media pages of these organizations for the most up-to-date information on schedules, locations, and available items. Consider contacting your local food bank or community center for additional resources and assistance.
