Services - Bread for the City

What would help?

Everyone experiences moments of challenge.  Bread for the City offers DC residents an opportunity to fill the gaps.
Service Icon

FOOD

• Monthly five-day supply of nutritious groceries
• Weekly farmers markets (alternating locations)
• Grocery Plus distribution site for qualifying seniors (60+)

Service Icon

CLOTHING

• Attire for all ages and occasions
• Toiletry packs regularly available
• Small household goods in limited quantities

Service Icon

HEALTH CARE

Medical Home for all ages, regardless of ability to pay
• Primary Care
• Dental
• Behavioral Health
• Vision
• Acupuncture
Call 202-386-7020 to make an appointment.

Service Icon

SOCIAL SERVICES

• Information about resources for shelter, food, public benefits, and more
• Workforce development courses
• Representative payee services
• Community wellness workshops
Call 202-265-2400 to get connected.

Service Icon

LEGAL SERVICES

• Advice, referrals, and representation
• Housing, family law, immigration, and public benefits cases

Call 202-386-7616 to talk to our legal clinic

Service Icon

DIAPERS & BABY SUPPLIES

• Diaper pick up is from the Southeast Center at 1700 Marion Barry Ave SE on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm.
• Please call 202 -301-1657 for detailed information on requesting diapers and current availability. DC residents can receive free diapers once a month.

BFC Icon

Frequently Asked Questions

Not sure what would help? Call us at 202-265-2400 during open hours to talk to a person. Interpretation is available.
¿No estás seguro de qué te podría ayudar? Llámanos al 202-265-2400 durante el horario de atención para hablar con una persona. Hay interpretación disponible.
ምን እንደሚረዳዎት እርግጠኛ አይደሉም? በክፍት ሰዓታችን በ202-265-2400 ይደውሉን ከሰው ጋር ለመናገር። ትርጉም አገልግሎት አለ።
不确定需要什么帮助?请在开放时间拨打 202-265-2400 与我们联系。我们提供翻译服务。

I need emergency rent or utility assistance; can you help?

Unfortunately, we do not have any emergency financial assistance. A good place to start is by contacting the DC Emergency Rental Assistance Program.

Are your centers accessible to people with mobility impairments?

Both our centers are ADA Compliant.

Do you give out SmartTrip cards?

In general, no, unfortunately we are not able to provide transportation assistance. Some exceptions are made for clients enrolled in specific Bread for the City programs that require regular attendance for a set period of time.

I need a birth certificate and/or a photo ID. How can I get one?

Bread for the City does not provide photo IDs. However, we have created this guide to help you:

  • Obtain a Non-Drivers ID
  • Obtain a Limited Purpose ID
  • Obtain a Replacement or First-Time Social Security Card
  • Obtain a DC Birth Certificate
  • Or find assistance with paying for Identification Documents.

Access the Guide

Materiales de identificación en español

How do I apply for food stamps, TANF, IDA, Alliance, or Medicaid?

The DC Department of Human Services’ Economic Security Administration determines eligibility for these public benefit programs. We can review eligibility criteria and give you information about which proofs you need to provide. For some programs, you can apply through the DHS Online Portal or through the DC First App. For certain types of Medicaid, you can apply through DC Healthlink. Please note that DHS Service Centers have limited services and are only accepting drop-off applications during the COVID-19 pandemic. Some centers have been temporarily closed. If DHS has wrongfully reduced or terminated your benefits or denied your application, please contact our legal clinic at (202) 386-7616.

I need clothing. Where can I go?

Bread for the City’s clothing room is located in our Southeast Center. Eligibility and hours are listed here.

Do you have furniture?

No, we don’t provide furniture but please contact us for information on other groups that may be able to help.

I need a job. How can you help?

We are not a job training or job placement agency. However, through our case management program we work with individuals to support them as they try to reach their goal. For some, employment is one of these goals.

Our case managers can also provide you with a listing of job training and placement agencies in DC.

I need affordable housing. How can you help?

Bread for the City does not have housing, but we have posted information on how to apply for subsidized housing in Washington, DC with additional resources.

You can also speak to one of our case managers to discuss your situation and what options might be available to you.  If you are in need of a place to stay tonight please call the Shelter Hotline: 202-399-7093 or 311.

I need a mailing address. Can my mail get sent to Bread for the City?

No, we are not able to serve as a mailing address for the public.  Please contact us for information on other groups that may be able to help.