Aid resources · Food and grocery help

Food help: food shelves, pantries, and free meals

Find free groceries, food shelves, food pantries, and free community meals across Dakota County and the South Metro. Compare walk-in, pickup, and appointment options to find the best fit.

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Use this page to compare food shelves, pantry programs, and meal support.
Check location, hours, and eligibility before going.
Start with the closest, lowest-barrier option.

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Showing local options for Inver Grove Heights and resources that serve the whole area.

Meal support

Free community meals and grocery giveaways. Most are drop-in.

Monthly · Register online

Grace Church of the Nazarene: Grocery GiveAway

Free grocery giveaway on the first Saturday of each month. Register online in advance.

Where: 7950 Blaine Ave E, Inver Grove Heights, MN

When: 1st Saturday monthly, 11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Visit site

Statewide programs

State and federal programs available across Minnesota

Statewide · Income-based

The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP)

Distributes USDA foods through food shelves, on-site meal programs, and shelters. Available to anyone in Minnesota who self-reports household income at or below 300% of the federal poverty guidelines.

Where: Minnesota, statewide. Distributed through local food shelves.

When: All year round

Learn more about TEFAP