What are Food Drop-Ins?
Food drop-ins are places offering free or low-cost meals, typically without requiring a referral, accessible to anyone in need of food. These services may include community kitchens, charity lunch clubs, church meal programmes, or other community meal initiatives.
Unlike food banks, food drop-ins usually provide hot meals that can be eaten on-site, with some offering takeaway options. Many drop-ins not only provide food but also offer a friendly social environment to reduce isolation and provide related support services.
Food drop-ins provide:
- Hot meals: Most drop-ins offer hot meals, with some providing breakfast or snacks.
- No referral needed: Typically no social worker or agency referral is required to access help.
- Social environment: A safe, warm space to meet others and reduce loneliness.
- Additional support: Many drop-ins also offer services like debt advice or welfare support.
Food Drop-Ins in Leeds
Below are some key food drop-in locations in Leeds. Please note that opening times may change, so we recommend calling ahead before visiting.
St. George's Crypt
Lunch: Monday-Sunday, 12:00-13:30
Dinner: Monday-Sunday, 17:00-18:00
PAFRAS (Positive Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers)
Leeds Vineyard Church - Bread of Life
Salvation Army - Leeds Central
Lunch: Monday & Thursday, 12:00-13:30
Community Kitchen at CATCH Leeds
Leeds Food Drop-Ins Map
The map below shows locations of all food drop-ins across Leeds:
Note: This is a sample map image. The live version would use an interactive map.
How to Access Food Drop-Ins
Unlike food banks, most food drop-ins don't require a referral. Here are the general steps to access them:
Find your nearest drop-in
Use the list or map above to locate food drop-ins near you.
Check opening times
Call ahead to confirm opening times as these may change.
Visit directly
Simply turn up during opening hours. Most drop-ins welcome everyone without appointment.
Learn about other support
Many drop-ins also offer additional support services like counselling or welfare advice. Ask about available services on site.
Need other support?
If you need longer-term food support, you may want to contact a food bank or community food pantry. For emergency food assistance, see our Find Emergency Food page.