Community Resources

Nutrition Support Matters

Food access is directly connected to health outcomes. Consistent access to balanced nutrition can help support:

  • Blood sugar control

  • Blood pressure management

  • Heart health

  • Energy levels and fatigue

  • Weight management

  • Pregnancy and postpartum recovery

  • Medication tolerance (including GLP-1 therapies)

Working with a Registered Dietitian can help you make the most of the foods you have access to and create a plan that fits your situation.

What to Expect from Food Banks and Pantries

Most food pantries provide a combination of:

  • Fresh produce (availability varies)

  • Canned fruits and vegetables

  • Grains (rice, pasta, oats)

  • Protein sources (beans, peanut butter, canned meat)

  • Shelf-stable dairy or alternatives

  • Household essentials (varies by location)

Some locations may require ID or proof of residency, while others are open to anyone in need.

Food Access Resources by Location

 

  • Blessings and Hope Food Pantry

    Address: 4730 Lakeland Highlands Rd, Lakeland, FL

    Phone: (863) 698-7512

    Hours: Tuesdays 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

    Notes: Walk-in pantry; may require check-in process

    One More Child Food Distribution

    Address: 1015 Sikes Blvd, Lakeland, FL

    Phone: (863) 687-8811

    Hours: Monday–Friday 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM

    Notes: Large distribution site with family support services

    Lakeland SDA Food Pantry

    Address: 1435 Gilmore Ave, Lakeland, FL

    Phone: (863) 815-8494

    Notes: Weekly food distribution schedule varies

    Compassion House Food Pantry

    Address: 1010 E Memorial Blvd, Lakeland, FL

    Phone: 863-802-0180

    Notes: Emergency food assistance; call ahead for availability

  • Winter Haven Food Pantry (Agape Mission Market)

    Address: 1700 3rd St SW, Winter Haven, FL

    Phone: (863) 299-7983

    Hours: Monday–Friday 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM

    Salvation Army Winter Haven

    Address: 320 W Central Ave, Winter Haven, FL

    Phone: (863) 294-7493

    Notes: Daily meal programs and pantry support

    Abundant Life Ministries Food Pantry

    Address: 5237 Thornhill Rd, Winter Haven, FL

    Phone: (863) 299-7111

  • Polk County WIC – Auburndale

    Address: 1805 Hobbs Rd, Auburndale, FL

    Phone: (863) 519-7542

    Hours: Monday–Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

    Notes: Nutrition support and referrals for families

    First Presbyterian Church Food Outreach

    Address: 410 Pilaklakaha Ave, Auburndale, FL

    Phone: (863) 604-0311

    Notes: Weekly pantry distributions

  • Polk County WIC – Lake Wales

    Address: 835 W Central Ave, Lake Wales, FL

    Phone: (863) 519-7542

    Hours: Monday–Friday 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM

    Catholic Charities Agape Food Bank

    Address: 644 S 9th St, Lake Wales, FL

    Phone: (863) 676-1556

    Notes: Regional distribution hub serving multiple pantries

  • Haines City

    Polk County WIC – Haines City

    Address: 1700 Baker Ave E Suite C, Haines City, FL

    Phone: (863) 519-7542

    Hours: Monday–Friday 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM