Food Insecurity Year-Round

Published on December 10, 2025

Food insecurity affects families year-round, especially those who must choose between buying food and paying for essentials like rent, utilities, or medical care. As the holiday season approaches—a time centered around meals and gatherings—these challenges can feel even more overwhelming for households already under strain.

Why It Matters

• Families often face difficult choices between food and other basic needs.
• Food insecurity is linked to higher risks of chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease and obesity.
• In Bexar County, low-income neighborhoods and families with children are disproportionately impacted.
• Holiday expenses and school breaks can increase food needs and financial pressure.

How to Help

• Donate to the San Antonio Food Bank or local food drives.
• Volunteer at community food markets or meal distribution events.
• Host or support holiday food drives.
• Advocate for equitable access to healthy foods in your community.

Community Partnerships

The City of San Antonio Metropolitan Health District (Metro Health) collaborates with local partners to address the root causes of food insecurity, not having enough money to buy the food you need and want, while also working to improve access to nutritious foods.

Metro Health’s Center for Policy & Health Improvement supports the Health Equity Network (HEN)—a coalition of 40 organizations working to remove barriers to food, housing stability, and access to respectful care, including prenatal care and mental and behavioral health services. The partners are building strong cross-sector partnerships that increase charitable assistance and housing stability. They also support storytelling and advocacy for efforts that address economic stability such as food and housing assistance.

Get Help

If you or someone you know is facing food insecurity, call 3-1-1 or 210-207-6000 or visit the San Antonio Food Bank to find assistance near you.