20 Places to Volunteer This Holiday Season in the DMV
Need food assistance in D.C., Maryland, or Northern Virginia? Find local programs offering free meals, groceries, and community support — with locations, hours, and links to help you get started.
Across the D.C., Maryland, and Northern Virginia region, community members are stepping up to fight hunger. From food banks to meal delivery services, these programs rely on volunteers to pack groceries, serve meals, and provide support to neighbors in need.
Whether you can give an hour or a day, your time makes a difference — and helps ensure everyone has access to nutritious food.
Washington, D.C.
Capital Area Food Bank Provides groceries, fresh produce, and prepared meals to residents in need. Mon–Fri, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM
Miriam’s Kitchen Serves breakfast and lunch to homeless individuals in D.C. Breakfast 7:00–9:00 AM, Lunch 12:00–2:00 PM
Bread for the City Offers free groceries, meals, and advocacy services for low-income residents. Mon–Fri, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
So Others Might Eat (SOME) Provides hot meals, groceries, and support services to D.C. residents experiencing homelessness. Meals served daily, 7:00 AM–8:30 AM & 12:00 PM–1:30 PM
D.C. Central Kitchen Distributes meals to individuals and families through partner agencies. Contact for distribution schedule
Maryland
Maryland Food Bank Provides emergency food and groceries across Maryland. Check website for local pantry schedules
Community Food Rescue Delivers rescued food to communities in need. Flexible; contact for schedule
Food & Friends Delivers nutritious meals to homebound individuals with critical illnesses. Delivery service; schedule meals online
Little Hands Virginia Hosts a “Big Turkey Trot” on Thanksgiving morning and needs volunteers for event set‑up, handing out refreshments, and course marshalling in Northern Virginia.
