How to Combat Food Insecurity in Camden, NJ
Serving Camden residents · information last checked by a local volunteer
Finding affordable food in Camden City can be difficult, especially when you are unsure where to go, what to expect, or whether you are eligible. This article explains how food pantries work and provides a list of food pantries and grocery distribution sites in Camden, New Jersey. It also explains what to ask before visiting and what you may need to bring.
This is one article in a larger guide to food assistance in Camden. Other articles will explain programs such as NJ SNAP, WIC, prepared community meals, school meals, and food assistance for older adults.
What is a food pantry? A food pantry is a place where people can receive free groceries to take home. Food pantries are often operated by churches, nonprofit organizations, schools, or community groups. Depending on availability, they may provide canned goods, rice, pasta, cereal, bread, fresh produce, meat, dairy products, and other basic food items.
Keep in mind that food pantries typically do not serve prepared meals. Instead, they provide individuals and families with groceries that can be cooked or eaten at home. Each pantry may have different hours, eligibility rules, and document requirements, so be sure to review the information below for the pantry you plan to visit before heading there.
Food Pantries and Grocery Distributions in Camden City
Information last checked: June 2026. Please call or check the organization’s website before visiting. Hours and food availability may change.
Community Food Pantries in Camden, New Jersey
| Food Pantry | Address | Phone Number |
|---|---|---|
| Mighty Writers Camden | 1801 Broadway, Camden, NJ 08104 | 856-993-0911 |
| Mighty Writers Camden East | 307 Ablett Village, State Street and River Road, Camden, NJ 08105 | 856-409-0802 |
| Your Food Shelf | 1500 Federal Street, Camden, NJ 08105 | (856) 365-6475 |
| New Mickle Baptist Church | 416 South 4th Street, Camden, NJ 08103 | (856) 365-1107 |
| Parkside United Methodist Church | 1420 Kaighns Avenue, Camden, NJ 08103 | 856-964-2254 |
| SSJ Neighborhood Center | 904 North 25th Street, Camden, NJ 08105 | (856) 338-8220 |
| Iglesia Fuego Celestial | 1476 South 8th Street, Camden, NJ 08104 | (856) 580-0791 |
| Antioch Baptist Church | 700 Ferry Avenue, Camden, NJ 08104 | 856-966-1765 |
| Sacred Heart Church | 1739 Ferry Avenue, Camden, NJ 08104 | 856-966-6700 |
| Salvation Army Camden Kroc CenterSalvation Army Camden Kroc Center | 1865 Harrison Avenue, Camden, NJ 08105 | 856-379-4871 |
What questions should you ask when you call?
Before visiting a food pantry, call to confirm that it is open and distributing food. You may want to ask:
- What days and times is the food pantry open?
- Do I need an appointment, or can I walk in?
- Who is eligible to receive food?
- Do I need to live in Camden or within a certain ZIP code?
- What documents should I bring, such as identification, proof of address, or proof of income?
- Do I need to bring identification for everyone in my household?
- How often can I receive food?
- Is food currently available?
- Do you offer fresh produce, meat, dairy products, or food for special dietary needs?
- Should I bring my own bags, cart, or boxes?
- Is there a separate entrance or location for food pickup?
- Do you offer delivery for older adults, people with disabilities, or people without transportation?
Write down the name of the person you spoke with, along with the confirmed date, time, and instructions for your visit.
What if the pantry is closed?
If a pantry is closed or does not have food available, ask whether the organization knows of another nearby distribution. You can also dial 2-1-1 to speak with NJ 211 and ask about food assistance available near you.
Next Steps
Food pantries are helpful when you need groceries, but they are not the only source of food assistance. Other articles in this guide explain how to apply for NJ SNAP and WIC, where to find prepared meals, and what food programs are available for children, families, and older adults.