The Food Pantry in Lakeland, FL, operates through the dedicated volunteers of the Junior League of Greater Winter Haven, delivering essential food assistance to those in need. Our mobile pantry travels to four high-need areas within Polk County, ensuring access to nutritious food that meets basic dietary requirements. We believe that everyone deserves reliable access to healthy meals, and our program is designed to support families facing food insecurity. Stay informed about our distribution dates and locations by checking our calendar, and join us in our mission to nourish our community, one meal at a time.

Located in Lakeland, FL, CORE is dedicated to providing essential financial assistance for families working in the restaurant industry who are facing hardships due to medical emergencies or illnesses. We understand the unique challenges that food and beverage service employees encounter, and our program aims to alleviate financial burdens by covering critical expenses such as rent, mortgage, utilities, medical bills, therapy, and childcare costs. We also support families with essential needs like diapers and formula during these challenging times. To ensure ongoing support, former recipients can reapply for assistance after 12 months, with a lifetime cap of $7,500 for qualifying conditions. CORE is committed to standing by families in need, helping them navigate through difficult times with care and compassion.

Food Stamp Assistance in Lakeland, FL, is dedicated to helping individuals and families access essential food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). We understand the challenges that come with financial hardship and strive to simplify the application process for government benefits. Our friendly team is here to guide you through a quick eligibility screener, which can be accessed by texting FOOD to 74544 or by visiting our online application platform. If you qualify, we’ll connect you to helpful resources and community partners who can assist you with your SNAP application, making it as straightforward as possible. Our mission is to ensure that everyone facing food insecurity in Lakeland can secure the support they need without added stress.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Lakeland, FL, is dedicated to empowering low-income families by providing essential food assistance to help them secure healthy and nutritious meals. This vital program, often referred to as food stamps, supports households who rely on one another for sustenance, allowing them to purchase a variety of food items, including bread, fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy products. SNAP benefits not only promote food security but also encourage families to grow their own food through the purchase of plants and seeds. Eligible households can easily apply for assistance online through the Florida Department of Children and Families’ ACCESS system or visit local community partner sites. For those who prefer traditional methods, paper applications are also accepted via mail, fax, or at local Customer Service Centers, making the process accessible and straightforward for all in need.

Hammy's Heart is dedicated to supporting families in Lakeland, FL, with critically ill children by alleviating the burden of grocery expenses. Understanding the overwhelming financial pressures these families face, our program offers gift cards specifically for grocery bills, ensuring they can focus on caring for their child without the added stress of meeting basic needs. To participate, families must have a doctor’s verification of their child’s medical condition and a referral from a social worker or healthcare provider. At Hammy's Heart, we are committed to providing essential food assistance where it’s needed most.

The Last Mission Project in Lakeland, FL, is dedicated to supporting veterans facing the challenges of PTSD by alleviating their financial burdens. We empower these heroes to make informed decisions about their treatment without the stress of costs impacting their families. With our comprehensive financial assistance program, veterans can receive help with rent, utilities, vehicle payments, and groceries, allowing them to focus on healing and reintegrating as productive members of their families and communities. Our mission is to ensure every veteran has the resources they need to thrive both on and off the field.

The Selma Schimmel Vital Grant, located in Lakeland, FL, offers essential support to individuals grappling with significant financial hardships stemming from chronic, terminal, or rare conditions, including cancer and Parkinson’s disease. This compassionate program provides vital resources such as utility assistance and grocery assistance, ensuring that those in need can maintain their basic necessities during challenging times. While the assistance covers either utilities or groceries, we also collaborate with various organizations to connect individuals with additional resources and support. Our mission is to alleviate financial stress and foster hope for those facing severe health challenges.

Critical Financial Assistance in Lakeland, FL, is dedicated to supporting military families facing financial hardships. We offer vital food assistance, help with essential home repairs, and coverage for auto payment and repair costs, along with other critical support services such as vision care, transportation, moving assistance, and transitional housing for wounded veterans and their loved ones. Our mission is to alleviate the financial stress on those who have served, providing a multi-faceted approach that addresses immediate needs including medical expenses, child care, and utility payments. Those seeking assistance can easily apply through our user-friendly portal, where initial applications are processed efficiently, although high demand may result in some delays. We are here to help navigate these challenging times with care and commitment.

The Ovarian Cancer Treatment Fund, based in Lakeland, FL, is dedicated to enhancing the lives of those battling ovarian cancer by providing crucial financial assistance. Our program offers a one-time payment of $1,000 to eligible patients, aimed at alleviating non-medical expenses that can burden families during treatment. Approved funding can be utilized for essential services such as transportation to medical appointments, rent and housing support, utilities and bills, groceries and food assistance, as well as child and elder care, and house cleaning services. We strive to make treatment more accessible and manageable for patients, with income eligibility requirements varying by state and verified during the application process. Together, we can navigate the challenges of ovarian cancer with compassion and support.

Located in Lakeland, FL, the Financial Resource Center is dedicated to ensuring that families facing cancer diagnoses do not have to navigate the burden of financial strain alone. Understanding that a cancer journey can lead to difficult choices between essential expenses like rent, groceries, and medical costs, we strive to provide crucial financial assistance. Our mission is to empower families by alleviating the stress associated with managing healthcare costs while maintaining their homes and nourishing their bodies. By offering support tailored to meet the immediate needs of those affected by cancer, we work to improve health outcomes and create a community where no family has to sacrifice vital necessities during their fight against cancer.

The BELAC Foundation is dedicated to supporting families in Lakeland, FL, who are navigating the challenges of childhood cancer. We provide essential financial assistance to help alleviate the burdens associated with medical treatment, including support for utilities, transportation costs, and food necessities. Services are coordinated with hospitals directly involved in the care of the children we serve, ensuring that aid reaches those who need it most. In addition to financial support, we offer monthly support groups where families can connect and share experiences. At the BELAC Foundation, we understand the urgency of these needs and are committed to providing compassionate assistance for families during their time of crisis.

The Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, located in Lakeland, FL, is dedicated to providing vital financial assistance and counseling to active duty and retired Sailors and Marines facing a variety of financial challenges. Our mission is to support military families through grants for essential needs such as food, housing, utilities, and healthcare. We offer crucial financial education and help with expenses related to establishing new residences—covering security deposits, utility set-up, and essential home repairs. Additionally, we address transportation costs, medical expenses, funeral support, and can help navigate pay shortages or delayed entitlements. With a focus on practical assistance and empowering service members, we strive to enhance the financial well-being of those who have served our nation.

Supportive Services for BIPOC Sex Workers, located in Lakeland, FL, is a dynamic collective led by Black, Indigenous, and People of Color performers and sex workers committed to empowering individuals in the sex trades. By prioritizing the leadership of sex workers, we implement effective labor advocacy, ensuring fair treatment and support within the industry. Our services include providing crucial financial assistance and facilitating access to mental health resources, medical care, and legal services specifically tailored for People of the Global Majority. We strive to create a safe and inclusive environment where every voice is heard, valued, and championed.