Due to the government shutdown, Federal SNAP benefits (previously known as food stamps) have been suspended. This page compiles food resources and information that will be most useful for Springfield residents. For statewide resources, the Commonwealth is maintaining a page at Mass.gov/SNAPFreeze.
Springfield food programs
This document lists food banks, pantries, and meal programs in Springfield, with their location, phone number, and schedule. Printed copies of this list are available at the library.
For options outside Springfield, visit Hampden County Food Programs.
Brown Bag Program- for seniors
Program by the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts
The Brown Bag Program provides a free bag of groceries once a month for people over the age of 55 who meet certain income eligibility. If you qualify for SSI, Medicaid, Fuel Assistance, Veteran’s Aid or have a documented disability for which you receive SSDI , you may qualify for Brown Bag monthly groceries.
City of Springfield Food Drive
The City of Springfield departments and local partners will be collecting donations of non-perishable food items for the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, which will serve as the distribution center for all of our local food pantries. All Springfield City Library locations will serve as collection points for non-perishable food donations.
Please bring your donations to the Welcome Desk at your branch.
View the city’s press release for additional information about this initiative.
General Information
There is an FAQ on the DTA website about changes to SNAP benefits and the government shutdown.
For a simpler overview, the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts posted on their website about how the government shutdown is affecting SNAP benefits and what to expect this November.
How to help
On October 27, 2025, Governor Healey and the United Way announced a new fund to support Massachusetts residents whose SNAP benefits are at risk. If you would like to contribute to help your neighbors, you can donate to the United Way of Pioneer Valley’s United Response Fund.
