At the Autism Society of Texas, we understand that accessing food and benefits like SNAP can be stressful and overwhelming — especially for families supporting a loved one with Autism. Our goal is to make this process easier by connecting you with helpful, reliable resources that meet your individual or family needs.
Whether you’re looking for immediate food assistance, support applying for SNAP, or help finding options that meet special dietary needs, we’re here to support you.
Need Help Navigating Resources?
Our team offers free, personalized support through our Navigation & Resource Program. We can help you understand eligibility, complete applications, or connect you with local food providers.
Phone: 512-479-4199
Email: info@
Take Action: Protect Autism Services
We also invite you to advocate for the reauthorization of the Autism CARES Act — a critical federal law that helps fund services, research, and coordinated care for the Autism community.
Please take a moment to contact your representatives and show your support:
Take Action Here
Understanding SNAP and Local Food Assistance
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides monthly benefits to help low-income households buy food. If you’re unsure how to apply, check your balance, or navigate changes to your benefits, these resources can help:
- Texas Health and Human Services – SNAP Information
- FindHelp.org – Search by ZIP code for food pantries and services
- Feeding America – Locate your nearest food bank
If you have questions about eligibility or need help with the application process, our team can assist you through our Navigation Program.
Major Food Banks in Texas
Below are key regional food banks across the state. Each offers services such as emergency food assistance, mobile pantries, and child nutrition programs. Visit their websites or call to learn what’s available in your area:
- Central Texas Food Bank – Austin & surrounding areas
- North Texas Food Bank – Dallas/Fort Worth
- Houston Food Bank – Greater Houston area
- San Antonio Food Bank – San Antonio and South Central Texas
- East Texas Food Bank – Tyler and surrounding areas
- Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley – South Texas
- West Texas Food Bank – Midland, Odessa, and West Texas
If you’re unsure which food bank serves your area, contact us and we’ll help you find the right one.
Food Support for Children with Special Dietary Needs
Some families need more than just access to food — they need options that are gluten-free, allergy-safe, or appropriate for medically restricted diets. The programs below aim to meet these needs. Availability may vary, so we encourage reaching out to each organization directly:
- Allergy Friendly Choices – Houston, TX
Provides gluten-free and allergy-friendly foods through partnerships with WHAM and the Houston Food Bank.
- Food Allergy Allies – Houston, TX
Delivers allergy-safe foods to local pantries, supporting families managing food allergies. - West Houston Assistance Ministries (WHAM) – Houston, TX
Includes designated days to serve families with food allergies or celiac disease. - Houston Food Bank – Houston, TX
Offers allergen-free food options during regular distribution. - Central Texas Food Bank – Austin and surrounding areas
Child nutrition programs such as BackPack and School Pantry. Special dietary needs may be accommodated with notice. - The Johnson Center for Child Health & Development – Austin, TX
Provides nutrition counseling and feeding support for children with Autism and complex dietary needs.
We are continually adding to this list. If you’re looking for resources in a specific region or have questions about dietary accommodations, reach out and we’ll do our best to connect you with appropriate support.