emergency food pantry
providing food to families in need
About our Emergency Food Pantry
Who we serve
Our Emergency Food Pantry is here for anyone for anyone facing food insecurity in our community. We proudly serve:
- Families and Individuals experiencing financial hardship, facing unexpected crisis, managing on a fixed income, or navigating a difficult time.
- Seniors and those with limited mobility who may have difficulty accessing nutritious food.
what we provide
Our pantry offers a variety of nutritious and essential food items to meet the diverse needs of our community. This includes:
- Pantry Staples: Canned vegetables, rice, beans, pasta, and other non-perishable goods.
- Fresh Produce: Seasonal fruits and vegetables when available.
- Proteins: Eggs, meat, canned tuna, peanut butter (subject to availability).
- Bread and Baked Goods: Weekly donations from local partners like the San Antonio Food Bank.
- Snacks: Granola bars, crackers, cereal, etc.
Every effort is made to offer a selection that balances shelf-stable items with fresh, healthy options. Availability depends on donations and partnerships, but we strive to make every visit valuable for those in need.
why we do it
Food insecurity affects individuals and families in every corner of our community, and we believe access to food is a basic human right. For over 50 years, Presa Community Center has been committed to alleviating hunger and strengthening our neighborhood by:
- Supporting families during times of crisis
- Providing a reliable resource for those facing unexpected financial challenges.
- Partnering with local organizations to amplify our reach and impact.
How the service works
1. Check Eligibility:
Our food pantry is here to assist during times of genuine emergency.
- If you’re experiencing a crisis and need food support, we’re here to help.
- Must have and bring with you a valid form of ID and current proof of residence.
Please note: Guests can visit once every three months to ensure resources are available for as many families as possible.
2. visit us:
Walk-ins are welcome during our hours of operation, and no appointment is necessary.
Please arrive at least 30 minutes before closing to allow enough time for us to serve you fully.
Address:
3721 S Presa St. San Antonio, TX 78210
Hours of Operation:
Monday – Friday (closed holidays)
Morning: 8:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Afternoon: 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM
3. Sign in:
When you arrive, our staff will guide you through the sign-in process. We’ll ask for your name and a few basic details about your household to help us maintain accurate records.
4. Receive your items:
After completing the sign-in part of the process, you will wait outside while our staff prepares a bag of food and groceries based on what is available.
Once your items are ready, they’ll be handed to you, and you’ll be all set to head on your way.
Pantry Bill Of Rights
- “The pantry has the right to verbally request information on the San Antonio Food Bank pantry intake form.”
2. “The pantry has the right to determine its own hours of operation and service guidelines as long as availability to clients is a priority and all clients are served equally. Service guidelines and hours of operation should be clearly posted for clients to see. “
3.” The pantry has the right to refuse service to a client only if:
- The client is creating a stressful situation for other clients
- The client is belligerent and disrespectful to agency staff / volunteers
- The client is posing a safety threat to other clients
- The client is out of their service area AND they have already been served by the agency for a one time emergency assistance
- The client is requesting food services above and beyond that which all other clients are receiving”
Compliments or Concerns?
Please call the San Antonio Food Bank with any compliments or concerns you have about this San Antonio Food Bank partner agency at, (210) 337-3663
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Q: Is the food pantry free?
A: Yes, this service is completely free for those in need.
Q: Who can use the emergency food pantry?
A: Any individual or family facing food insecurity in the local community.
Q: Can someone else pick up food on my behalf?
A: No, we ask that the person needing assistance must pick up the food in person.
Q: Can I volunteer to help with the pantry?
A: Yes, learn more about our volunteer program here.
Q: Do I need to call ahead or make an appointment?
A: No, walk-ins are welcome.
Q: How often can I use the food pantry?
A: Our food pantry is a service, not a program, and is intended to assist during emergencies. We require at least 3 months between visits, and we kindly ask that you only return if you are experiencing a genuine emergency.
Q: Can I request specific types of food?
A: No, we do not take specific food requests. We guarantee canned goods, but produce and bread availability may vary. Thank you for your understanding.
Q: What do I need to bring?
A: Bring a valid form of ID with current proof of residence.
Q: What types of food are provided?
A: We offer a variety of items, including pantry staples, bread, fresh produce, and more, depending on availability.
Q: How long does the process take?
A: Typically around 15-20 minutes, depending on the number of visitors and whether bags are pre-packed. Wait times can vary.
Q: How can I donate food or funds?
A: If you are interesting in making a cash donation, check out or donation page here. For Food donations, contact us at, support@presa.org