Food Assistance

We believe no one should face hunger alone. Our food service programs are designed to provide consistent, dignified, and accessible nourishment for individuals and families in need whether it’s a one-time emergency or ongoing support.

DCF Access Assistance –
SNAP & Medicaid

We offer hands-on assistance for individuals applying for SNAP (Food Stamps) and Medicaid benefits. Our trained case managers guide clients through the application process and help ensure continued access to critical food and healthcare resources.

Service Type: By appointment only
Access Location: On-site at the Matrix Service Center Office
Self-Scheduling: Click here to schedule an appointment
Eligibility: Determined by the Florida Department of Children and Families.
- Click here to view SNAP Eligibility criteria
- Click here to view Medicaid Eligibility criteria

The Little Food Pantry (24/7 Access)

Need help outside of normal business hours? Our Little Food Pantry is always open. Stocked with shelf-stable, grab-and-go items, it’s ideal for emergency or short-term food needs and it’s made possible by the generosity of our local community.

Located in the alleyway on the south side of the Matrix building, this pantry operates on the principle:

"Take what you need, need what you take."

Please remember this is intended as a temporary emergency food resource. The more our community supports it, the more individuals and families in crisis can rely on it when they need it most.

Service Type: Self-serve, emergency access
Access Location: South alleyway of the Matrix building
Hours: 24/7

Fishes & Loaves Pantry –
Case-Managed Food Support

Our Fishes & Loaves Pantry is not just about food, it’s about stability. As part of our case management program, individuals and families can receive a Fishes & Loaves Food Voucher, processed directly through their assigned case manager.

This support is integrated into a personalized service plan focused on long-term stability, not just temporary relief. It's not a handout, but a steppingstone toward progress.

Additionally, individuals and families in urgent need may receive a one-time emergency food box through the pantry while waiting to be assigned a case manager and establish a case plan. This ensures that no one goes hungry in the interim.

Service Type: Case manager-issued food voucher & one-time emergency food box (as needed)
Access Location: On-site at the Matrix
Availability: Monday through Friday

Weekly Drive-Through Distributions

Our Drive-Through Food Distribution program provides a generous selection of food items including meat, dairy, fresh fruits and vegetables, pantry staples, and more. These distributions are a vital resource for individuals and families facing food insecurity.

Although held weekly, distributions are not on a fixed schedule due to the timing and availability of food deliveries. Because of this, we highly recommend signing up for our text messaging notification system to receive alerts about upcoming distribution events.

📲 Sign up for text alerts here: Click to Sign Up

While we strive to provide advance notice, some distributions may be announced last minute due to factors beyond our control. Signing up ensures you’ll always be in the know.

Service Type: No-contact drive-through
Access Location: Matrix parking lot
Schedule: Varies weekly; text alerts recommended

📍 Drive-Through Route & Safety Guidelines:
To ensure smooth operations and maintain safety:

Follow posted signs and directional markers for entering and exiting the distribution line.
Do not exit your vehicle at any time during the distribution process.
Staff and volunteers will load items directly into your vehicle to keep traffic flowing efficiently and safely.

How You Can Help

Help us fight hunger and build a stronger community by supporting our food distribution efforts. Whether you choose to donate food, make a financial contribution, volunteer your time, or host a food drive in your neighborhood or workplace, your support creates real, tangible impact.

Every can of food, every dollar given, and every hour volunteered helps ensure that local families have access to nutritious meals when they need them most. Together, we can turn compassion into action, one meal at a time.