Looking for a meaningful way to give back to your community? Supporting local food banks is one of the most direct ways to help neighbors who may be struggling with food insecurity.

Below are six food banks in the area where your donations — whether they're food, funds, or volunteer hours — can make a difference.

Food For Others | Fairfax

Founded in 1995, this organization has been serving Fairfax and the greater Northern Virginia community for decades. Food donations are accepted at the Merrifield warehouse from 2 to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, or during regular operating hours at Loading Dock 2.

See what’s most needed.

You can also make a financial donation on this page of the website.

See how you can access Food For Others resources.

Arlington Food Assistance Center | Arlington

The AFAC says it provides about 4,200 Arlington families with groceries — about 30% of the food comes from local food drives.

Want to help? Register here to host your own food drive.

Learn how to receive food and other resources from AFAC.

Northern Virginia Food Rescue | Manassas

There are numerous ways that you can donate to this organization. You can order specific food items from their Amazon wishlist. There are also ways for you to make online donations, donations via check, and even via PayPal and Venmo. See which one is easiest for you.

In need of food? Check out this resource.

Capital Area Food Bank | Washington, DC

If you’d like to donate food, you can host a traditional food drive or drop off items at one of their donation sites. From donating to volunteering, there are many ways to support the Capital Area Food Bank. Learn more about how you can give back here.

Need inspiration? Check out their Amazon wishlist for suggested items.

In need of resources? Find food near you.

Food For Neighbors | Northern Virginia

This program partners with schools to reduce hunger among middle and high school students.

Donating food through this organization is made easy with their Red Bag Program. Just request a bag, and Food For Neighbors will send it to you along with a tag listing the most-needed items. You don’t have to purchase everything on the list — just give what you can. Prefer to donate online? There’s also a convenient virtual Red Bag option.

Looking for other ways to help out? You can also make a donation or volunteer.

Loudoun Hunger Relief | Leesburg

Support your community through financial donations, food drives, and other meaningful ways to give back. Get involved and give help here.

In need of assistance? Receive assistance from Loudoun Hunger Relief.