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Top Apps to Find Food Assistance in Texas and nationwide during the SNAP shutdown
With the ongoing federal government shutdown potentially halting SNAP benefits in November 2025, many Texans are turning to local food resources for help. Fortunately, several mobile apps make it easier to locate food banks, pantries, and emergency distributions across the state.
These tools are especially useful for low-income families, seniors, and those affected by the benefits lapse. Below, we highlight key apps and how they work, including options specific to Central Texas (e.g., Austin, San Antonio areas).
1. North Texas Food Bank App
- What it does: This free app helps users in North Texas (and parts of East Texas) find nearby food pantries and mobile distributions using the integrated Vivery tool. Features include real-time updates on locations, hours, available food, and additional services like SNAP application help or ESL classes. You can also opt-in for notifications about new distributions or closures (e.g., due to weather).
- How to get it: Download from the App Store or Google Play.
- Best for: Residents in Dallas-Fort Worth and surrounding areas seeking quick pantry searches.
2. Houston Food Bank App
- What it does: Designed for the Greater Houston area, this app lets users find local pantries, schedule appointments for food pickups, and learn about programs like nutrition education or senior boxes. It’s a one-stop tool for discovering free groceries and connecting to other hunger-relief services.
- How to get it: Available on the App Store or Google Play.
- Best for: Southeast Texas users needing appointment-based access to avoid long lines.
3. Your Texas Benefits App
- What it does: While primarily for managing SNAP, TANF, and Medicaid benefits, this statewide app includes resources for finding community help, such as linking to food assistance programs. Users can check benefit status, apply for aid, and get referrals to local services during the shutdown.
- How to get it: Download from the App Store or Google Play.
- Best for: Anyone in Texas tracking benefits while exploring food options.
4. MealConnect App (National, Useful in Texas)
- What it does: This app connects users to surplus food rescues from stores and restaurants, often distributed through Texas food banks. It’s great for finding free meals or groceries in real-time, especially in urban areas.
- How to get it: Free on the App Store or Google Play.
- Best for: Donors and recipients looking for fresh, rescued food.
5. Providers App (Formerly Fresh EBT) – Central Texas Friendly
- What it does: This app helps manage EBT balances, find stores that accept SNAP, discover recipes, and locate food resources. It’s particularly useful in Central Texas for stretching benefits and finding alternatives during the shutdown.
- How to get it: Download from the App Store or Google Play.
- Best for: Central Texas residents monitoring SNAP and seeking nearby food options.
6. FreshTrak (Mobile-Friendly Web Tool) – For San Antonio and Central Areas
- What it does: While not a native app, FreshTrak is a web-based tool optimized for mobile devices to find food pantries, distributions, and resources. The San Antonio Food Bank recommends it for viewing upcoming events and registering to save time.
- How to get it: Access via browser at FreshTrak.com. Add to home screen for app-like experience.
- Best for: Users in San Antonio and surrounding Central Texas areas needing quick distribution info.
For broader searches, visit Feeding Texas or call 2-1-1 for personalized assistance. These apps are vital backups if SNAP isn’t issued—download one today to stay prepared.