Maryland is home to a network of dedicated food banks and pantries aimed at combating hunger and providing nutritious food to those in need. With locations spread across Baltimore, the Eastern Shore, and Western Maryland, residents have access to essential resources and support. From the central hub at the Maryland Food Bank’s Baltimore office to the community-focused efforts on the Eastern Shore and Western Maryland, these organizations work tirelessly to ensure no one goes hungry.
Maryland Food Bank – Baltimore Office
The Maryland Food Bank’s Baltimore office serves as the central hub for food distribution across central Maryland. It provides millions of meals annually through a network of community partners and manages statewide hunger relief initiatives.
Location: 2200 Halethorpe Farms Rd, Baltimore, MD 21227
Service Counties: Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Anne Arundel County, Harford County, Howard County
Contact Number: (410) 737-8282
Website: Maryland Food Bank
Community Assistance Network (CAN)
Community Assistance Network (CAN) offers emergency food packages to Baltimore County residents, ensuring access to balanced and nutritious food for those in need.
Location: 7900 E. Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21224
Service Counties: Baltimore County
Contact Number: (410) 285-4674
Website: Community Assistance Network
Homestead UMC Community Service Center
Homestead UMC Community Service Center provides a soup kitchen, pantry items, and free clothing to the Baltimore City community, focusing on those experiencing food insecurity.
Location: 1500 Gorsuch Ave, Baltimore, MD 21218
Service Counties: Baltimore City
Contact Number: (410) 243-4419
Website: Homestead UMC Community Service Center
Maryland Food Bank – Eastern Shore Branch
The Eastern Shore branch of the Maryland Food Bank distributes millions of meals to rural communities on the Eastern Shore, supporting local food pantries and programs.
Location: 28500 Owens Branch Rd, Salisbury, MD 21801
Service Counties: Dorchester County, Kent County, Queen Anne’s County, Somerset County, Talbot County, Wicomico County, Worcester County
Contact Number: (410) 742-0050
Website: Maryland Food Bank Eastern Shore
Maryland Food Bank – Western Branch
The Western Branch of the Maryland Food Bank enhances food distribution in Western Maryland, partnering with local organizations to provide essential food aid.
Location: 220 McRand Court, Hagerstown, MD 21740
Service Counties: Allegany County, Frederick County, Garrett County, Washington County
Contact Number: (410) 737-8282
Website: Maryland Food Bank Western Branch
Capital Area Food Bank
Capital Area Food Bank supports Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties with food assistance and community hubs, helping families access nutritious food.
Location: 4900 Puerto Rico Ave NE, Washington, DC 20017
Service Counties: Montgomery County, Prince George’s County
Contact Number: (202) 644-9800
Website: Capital Area Food Bank
SHARE Food Network
SHARE Food Network provides discounted, healthy food on a monthly basis to Maryland residents, along with assistance with SNAP applications and other resources.
Location: 3222 Hubbard Rd, Landover, MD 20785
Service Counties: Statewide
Contact Number: (301) 864-3115
Website: SHARE Food Network
How Maryland Food Banks Operate
Maryland food banks operate through a network of local pantries, soup kitchens, and community organizations to distribute food to those in need. They collect donations from individuals, businesses, and food drives, then store and sort these donations in centralized warehouses. Volunteers and staff work together to ensure that food is distributed efficiently to various partner agencies across the state. These organizations then provide food directly to individuals and families facing food insecurity.
How to Donate to Food Banks in Maryland
- Monetary Donations: Financial contributions can be made online through food bank websites or by mail. These donations help purchase bulk food and cover operational costs.
- Food Donations: Non-perishable food items can be donated at designated drop-off locations or during food drives organized by the food banks.
- Volunteer Time: Volunteers are essential for sorting, packing, and distributing food. Many food banks have regular volunteer opportunities.
- Corporate Partnerships: Businesses can partner with food banks through sponsorships, matching gift programs, and corporate volunteer days.
- Organize a Food Drive: Community members can organize food drives at their workplaces, schools, or places of worship to collect food donations.
Importance of Maryland Food Banks
Maryland food banks play a crucial role in addressing food insecurity and hunger in the state. They provide essential nutrition to vulnerable populations, including children, seniors, and low-income families. By offering consistent access to food, these organizations help improve overall health and well-being, reduce stress, and support community stability. Food banks also raise awareness about hunger issues and advocate for policies to address the root causes of food insecurity.