Resources and Support for Tennesseans Facing Food Insecurity

As of November 1, 2025, millions of Americans—including many older adults—may not receive their monthly food benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. This disruption affects individuals living on fixed incomes, many of whom rely on SNAP to afford groceries and maintain their health.

You Are Not Alone

If you are facing food insecurity, know that help is available. Whether you need groceries, home-delivered meals, or someone to talk to, these resources are here to support you. You deserve dignity, nourishment, and peace of mind.

Check Your EBT Balance

Unused SNAP benefits from previous months may still be available. Benefits usually stay on your card for up to 12 months. Visit your state’s EBT portal or call the number on the back of your card to check your balance.

Many food banks and pantries offer services tailored to older individuals, including home delivery and dietary-sensitive options:

Statewide:

• All AAAD's (Area Aging and Disability Office) in Tennessee

East Tennessee:

• WATE-TV published a comprehensive list of food and assistance resources. Check it out >>
• Second Harvest Mobile Food Pantries
• Beardsley Farm plans to distribute food at the L.T. Ross building (2247 Western Avenue) on November 8.
• The Salvation Army of Knoxville or call 865-525-9401
• Arlington Church of Christ has a small food pantry.
• Inskip Grill in Fountain City plans to provide free kids’ meals every Tuesday starting November 4 for families. (Must show EBT and IDs)

Middle Tennessee:

• Second Harvest Food Bank of call (615) 329-3491
• Meals on Wheels (Mid-Cumberland) or call (615) 850-3910
• The Store (Nashville) - offers free groceries for seniors
• LIHEAP Energy Assistance - help with heating/cooling bills
• Families First (TANF) - cash and support for caregivers
• For additional help, contact the Greater Nashville Regional Chamber (GNRC) or call 615-862-8828

West Tennessee:

• The Mid-South Food Bank or call 901-527-0841
  3865 S Perkins Rd.
  Memphis TN 38118
• MIFA (Meals on Wheels, Congregant Meals, Utility and Housing Assistance) or call 901-527-0208
  910 Vance Avenue
  Memphis TN 38126
• RIFA Jackson TN (senior meals)
  133 Airways Blvd.
  Jackson TN 38301
• Christ Community Health Care Services or call 901-842-3160
  MULTIPLE LOCATIONS
• Memphis Health Center or call 901-261-2000
  MULTIPLE LOCATIONS
• FQHC's (federally qualified health centers) provide comprehensive medical, mental health, pharmacy, and dental care for the uninsured and underinsured in Shelby and Madison County, TN.
• Alliance Healthcare (mental health services) or call 901-369-1410
  MULTIPLE LOCATIONS
• Church Health Center or call 901-272-0003
  Crosstown Concourse
  Provides comprehensive medical, vision, dental for Shelby County residents only. As of now their appointment wait list is about 2-3 months.
• Regional One Hospital or call 901-545-7100
  MULTIPLE HOSPITAL AND CLINIC LOCATIONS
  Provides hospital procedures to the most marginalized residents and seniors.
  

Nationwide resources:

• Feeding America Food Bank Locator - https://www.feedingamerica.org/find-your-local-foodbank
• Hunger Free America - https://findfood.hungerfreeamerica.org
• Food Finder Interactive Map - https://foodfinder.us/
• WhyHunger Find Food Database - https://whyhunger.org/find-food
• Meals on Wheels America: Delivers nutritious meals directly to homes. Find a provider - https://www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/
• Little Food Pantries - https://www.thelittlefreepantries.org/
• Local Area Agencies on Aging (AAA): These agencies often coordinate food delivery, congregate meals, and other support services. Find your local AAA - https://eldercare.acl.gov/home

National Hotlines for Immediate Help

• National Hunger Hotline: Call 1-866-3-HUNGRY or 1-877-8-HAMBRE (Spanish)
• WhyHunger Hotline: Call 1-800-5-HUNGRY or text your ZIP code to 1-800-548-6479
• Call 2-1-1 or visit 211.org to connect with local food programs.