Nutrition Services

Food pantry staff supplying meal packs to the community.

NOURISHING NASSAU COUNTY NEIGHBORS

At Barnabas Center, we believe that no one should have to wonder if or when they will get their next meal.  Many people don’t realize that hunger affects many residents throughout Nassau County – working families, children and seniors – who are often just dealing with extraordinary circumstances. The team at Barnabas Center fights food insecurity by supplying free food through our food pantry, various mobile food distributions and a meal pack program for children. By nourishing our neighbors in need, we can build a stronger community for all.

In Nassau County, food insecurity affects:

ADULTS
1 in 0
CHILDREN
1 in 0
ADULTS
1 in 0
CHILDREN
1 in 0

HOW TO QUALIFY

Barnabas Center’s food pantry and mobile distributions are designed to support food-insecure Nassau County families. Those who wish to receive free food must be 18 years or older, show a valid photo ID and proof of residency. The children’s meal pack program is currently only available to those enrolled in Nassau County Schools’ Families in Transition (FIT) Program. 

To partake in our free Diabetes Self-Management and Education (DSME) program, individuals must be an existing Barnabas Center medical patient. To find out more about becoming one, please explore our health services program or call 904.261.7000.

To learn more about whether you qualify for any of our services, please all our office at 904.261.7000

 
Local resident providing food to food pantry staff at food drop-off event.

OUR FOOD PANTRY
FILLS THE GAPS

Currently operating as a drive-through service, our food pantry offers a variety of nutritious free food to give those struggling to make ends meet what they need to make healthy, balanced meals. Individuals and families can visit the pantry twice a month, receiving a well-rounded selection that includes protein options like frozen meat, canned tuna or chicken as well as fresh or frozen produce, milk and canned goods such as corn and green beans. We’re committed to ensuring that people going through tough times have access to enough food and essential nutrients to support their overall wellness. By providing these wholesome foods at no cost, we are assisting individuals and families as they stabilize and work toward a healthier, more secure future.

1303 Jasmine St., Suite 101, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034

Tuesday – Friday: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Barnabas-branded shopping bag filled with, and surrounded by a variety of food including cereal, soup, beans, and chips.
Food pantry staff working at drive up food drop-off event.

FOOD DISTRIBUTIONS IMPROVE ACCESS

We proudly sponsor five mobile food distributions every month across Nassau County to ensure that those in need can access nutritious, free food no matter where they live. These events are open to everyone, operating on a first-come, first-served basis, so individuals and families can drive up or walk to receive assistance without any barriers. People are encouraged to attend twice a month, and no ID is required to get food. However, we do ask a few simple questions, such as how many people live in their household, their ages and whether any household members are disabled. Our goal is to make healthy, balanced meals available to as many individuals and families as possible.

Get Help

If you or someone you know needs support, reach out to Barnabas Center today – because everyone deserves a helping hand during tough times.

A young girl with a food pantry meal pack and bottle of water.

STUDENTS RECEIVE WEEKEND SUPPORT

In partnership with the Nassau County School’s Families in Transition (FIT) Program, our meal pack program provides weekend meals for school-age children enrolled in the program. Each week, we carefully prepare and deliver packed meals to participating schools, where they are given to FIT students on Fridays, providing them with a sense of security and nourishment to bridge the weekend meal gap.

MANAGING DIABETES THROUGH EDUCATION

Everyone should have the resources to take charge of their health. The Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES) program at Barnabas Center was created with a heartfelt commitment to support our health care clinic patients who are living with diabetes. This personalized, patient-centered program offers both group and one-on-one education, equipping participants with the essential knowledge and tools they need to effectively manage their diabetes. Currently, the DSMES program is only available to Barnabas Center medical patients. To see if you qualify for participation, please call our office at 904.261.7000. We’re here to help you every step of the way.

Barnabas health services staff consult diabetic with Diabetes Self-Management and Education (DSME) program documents.

GROWING A HEALTHIER COMMUNITY

The Seeds of Hope Community Garden at Barnabas Center is a thriving space for health, education and connection. With support from an anonymous donor as well as the Florida Blue Foundation and RYAM, the garden provides fresh vegetables for neighbors in need and features sustainable elements like a greenhouse, solar-powered irrigation and a rainwater collection system for year-round harvests. Through our Healthy Food = Healthy Nassau! initiative, participants learn hands-on gardening and nutrition skills, while our Grow Bag program allows families to grow their own herbs and vegetables at home. Together, these efforts are nurturing a healthier, more sustainable Nassau County.

Help Your Neighbors

Donate to Barnabas Center to make a real difference in the lives of individuals and families in our community.

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Upcoming Food Distributions

Upcoming Food Distributions

Get Help

If you or someone you know needs support, reach out to Barnabas Center today – because everyone deserves a helping hand during tough times.

HAVE A QUESTION?

Whether you need assistance, want to get involved or just have a thought to share, we’re always happy to listen and help however we can. We’re committed to making sure everyone in our community feels heard, valued and supported.