Where Newington Families Can Find Free Groceries and Meals

If your family is feeling the pinch with SNAP funding on hold, you’re not alone — and Newington (Newington, Kingstowne, Springfield & Lorton) is full of organizations ready to help. We’ve rounded up local resources where you can find free groceries, community meals, and kid-friendly food programs to make things a little easier.

Local Food Pantries and Food Banks

• Capital Area Food Bank 
  • 6833 Hill Park Dr, Lorton, VA 22079
  • Call ahead to understand how direct food distribution to individuals works (or if they redirect you to one of their partner agencies)
• Ecumenical Community Helping Others (ECHO)
  • 7205 Old Keene Mill Rd, Springfield, VA 22150
  • ECHO provides food, clothing, housewares, and limited financial assistance (rent/utilities/car repairs) to individuals and families in the Burke/Springfield area 
• Lorton Community Action Center
  • 9520 Richmond Hwy, Lorton, VA 22079
  • LCAC provides food, clothing, emergency financial assistance, and broader outreach programs for low‑income individuals, seniors, and families in southeast Fairfax County (including Lorton & Newington) 
  • Food‑pantry distribution hours: Tuesday 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.; Wednesday 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.; Thursday 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
  • If you’re coming for food, go in during their distribution hours and bring any required ID or proof of residence if requested
• New Hope Church Pantry
  • 8905 Ox Road, Lorton, VA 22079
  • For more information, please contact K. Feld (kim.feld@newhope.org)
• Society of St. Vincent de Paul – Holy Spirit Conference Local Food Distribution Sites
  • Sydenstricker United Methodist Church, 8508 Hooes Rd, Springfield, VA 22153
    • “Food Corner” open Tuesdays 3:30‑6 pm and accessible via box outside for non‑perishables & non‑food items
  • Springfield Christian Church, 5407 Backlick Rd, Springfield, VA
    • Pantry Thursdays 1:30‑4:30 pm for registered households

Community Meals & Free Food Events

• YMCA

For Families with Kids

Many organizations in Newington (Newington, Kingstowne, Springfield & Lorton) offer free meals or snacks for children and teens, even outside of school hours. Check with:

• Local YMCAs, Boys & Girls Clubs, or after-school programs
• Libraries or churches that host kids’ meal days or snack tables
• County or city social services websites for up-to-date youth meal information

Blessing Boxes, Little Free Pantries, & Community Fridges

These small, take-what-you-need spots are stocked by neighbors and open 24/7:

• Little Free Pantry — 8905 Ox Road Lorton, VA 22079

Lisa | Canva

💕 Ways to Help Others

If your family is in a position to give back, many of these groups welcome donations or volunteers. A few cans of soup, a bag of rice, or a few minutes helping stock shelves can make a real difference.

More Local Resources

• 211 Helpline: Call 211 or visit 211.org for up-to-date information on food, housing, and family resources in Newington.
• Feeding America: Find additional food pantries at FeedingAmerica.org/find-your-local-foodbank.

Macaroni KID Newington is here to support local families — whether it’s finding fun things to do or helping when times are tough. Because being part of Newington (Newington, Kingstowne, Springfield & Lorton) means showing up for each other — and we’re always here to help you find what your family needs.