With the threat of SNAP being paused, Southie Steps Up: How to Help Your Neighbors in Need

As many families across Boston face cuts or a pause in their SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)benefits, it’s more important than ever for our community to step up. South Boston has always taken care of its own, and there are plenty of ways—big and small—to make sure no one goes hungry this season. Whether you can donate canned goods, volunteer your time, or give a few dollars, your kindness will go a long way.
Here’s your guide to giving locally
Local Food Pantries & Organizations Accepting Donations
South Boston Neighborhood House (The Ollie)
136 H Street
The Ollie supports families with everything from youth programs to emergency food assistance. Donations of non-perishables, grocery gift cards, and monetary support are always welcome.
👉 Learn more here
St. Monica – St. Augustine Food Pantry
331 Old Colony Avenue
Run by dedicated volunteers, this long-standing pantry serves local residents weekly. They accept canned goods, dry goods, and frozen foods, as well as toiletries and baby items.
📦 Donations can be dropped off at the rectory or coordinated by calling the parish office.
Catholic Charities – Labouré Center
275 West Broadway
The Labouré Center supports hundreds of South Boston families every year. They accept food donations, grocery gift cards, and help connect people to resources for housing and employment.
💻 You can learn more here.
South Boston Community Health Center Food Distribution Program
409 West Broadway
Partnering with local organizations, the Health Center offers a community food pantry and emergency food support for patients and residents in need. Donations of healthy, shelf-stable foods are especially appreciated.
📞 Call (617) 269-7500 to ask about donation drop-offs.
Fourth Presbyterian Church Food Pantry
340 Dorchester Street
Your donations help support this important work. You can learn more here!
💵 Other Ways to help
Monetary donations go a long way—especially since local food programs can stretch your dollar through partnerships with the Greater Boston Food Bank or Project Bread. A $25 donation can feed a family for a week! Consider giving online to the Greater Boston Food Bank and/or Project Bread!
Julie’s Family learning program is looking for gift card donations to help families in need. You can learn more here.
Gift Card Donation Drive via South Boston Moms Club for local families. You can make a donation here!
Project Paulie supports over 30 local organizations. They are currently working to help those who may be affected by the SNAP pause.
Know of another way to give back? Drop the details in the comments below.

Maureen Dahill is the founder of Caught in Media. Once a longtime wardrobe and prop stylist for brands such as Rue La La, TJ Max & Hasbro, she is a devoted lover of vintage clothing, Martini Mondays, Castle Island, AND a 4th generation South Boston native. Mother of three, married to Peter G.


Thank you for the wonderful Southie news.