COVID-19 (Coronavirus): help get and give food

Find locations to access free and low-cost groceries and meals, including food banks, on this print-friendly map: 

• Free and low cost food services map PDF file (387 KB)
• ​​​​​​​無料または低価格フードサービス PDF file (457 KB)
• Services alimentaires gratuits ou à bas prix PDF file (366 KB)

The map is updated regularly with current food program information. Sign up to get an email when the map is updated by choosing Food Map on our subscription form.

Free and low-cost food programs, and other supports, can also be reviewed on this Google Map maintained by Limage Media External website, opens in new tab (not maintained by the City of Vancouver).

The BC Centre for Disease Control answers questions about food safety during COVID-19 External website, opens in new tab

Grocery stores are identified by the Province of BC as essential services. They are open and being restocked on a regular basis during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

If you're able:

• Offer to get groceries for your vulnerable neighbours and friends.
• Get your groceries in person. Many online grocery delivery services are operating at capacity so leave those services open to vulnerable residents who need it most. 

Refer to BC Public Health Orders External website, opens in new tab for up to date information on dining at restaurants and accessing takeout services.

We've made adjustments to the implementation plan for the Single-Use Item Reduction Strategy given the impacts of COVID-19.

Farmers markets are identified by the Province of BC as an essential service. They are allowed to operate during the COVID-19 pandemic. Vendors and employees are taking precautions to limit the spread of infections and are functioning solely as access points for fresh and prepared foods. Find out more about farmers markets in Vancouver

Shop Vancouver Farmers Markets online orders External website, opens in new tab to browse a real-time product list from vendors, place orders, and pre-pay for pick-up or delivery.

Visit a farmers market in person External website, opens in new tab

The Province of BC has identified community gardens as an essential service, which means they are allowed to operate during the COVID-19 pandemic.

To reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission in a community garden setting:

• Practice proper physical distancing by keeping at least 2 m from others
• Bring the necessary supplies from home (hand sanitizer, water, soap, towels) to clean your hands
• Bring your own gloves and tools from home, do not use any shared tools or gloves
• Disinfect all touch points before and after use
• Organize a schedule for members to tend to their gardens at certain times of the day to regulate the number of people in the garden
• Stay home if you are feeling sick

Download COVID-19 gardening safety tips poster PDF file (2 MB)

Find community gardens in Vancouver

The Province of BC has identified farms as an essential service, which means that urban farms are allowed to operate during the COVID-19 pandemic. Contact individual urban farms directly for their current status.

Learn more about urban farming in Vancouver

United Way iVolunteer External website, opens in new tab

Browse volunteer opportunities with a wide range of non-profit organizations providing urgent support in your community.

Business Communications and Support Office

Review how we and others are supporting local businesses during the COVID-19 emergency. Get resources and review guidelines for businesses.

Give A Hand Vancouver

Donate meals, groceries, food-related supplies or services, and money to support the COVID-19 response and help our community.

Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) provides guidance for preparing and serving meals to the public in community-based food programs such as free and low-cost meal programs. 

Find VCH recommendations on minimizing COVID-19 risk for community-based food programs External website, opens in new tab

If you run a food program and require additional guidance on re-opening or modifying your program due to COVID-19, contact VCH for assistance External website, opens in new tab.

Give A Hand Vancouver

Donate meals, groceries, food-related supplies or services, and money to support the COVID-19 response and help our community.