Whether you're homeless in the city or in the rural parts of the state, having food and water is absolutely essential.

One of the first things you should do is check our directory to see if there are any resources near you that offer food. While we do our best to list every resource, there are many that have not yet been added to our directory as we simply don't know about them yet.

Even if there aren't any resources near you, there may be other options or alternatives that can help in your time of need.

Where to Find Food

Soup kitchens and shelters

Many cities have soup kitchens and shelters that provide meals to those in need. These facilities are often run by non-profit organizations and may serve meals at specific times of day or on certain days of the week.

Food banks

Food banks are organizations that collect and distribute food to those in need. Many food banks offer free, non-perishable food items like canned goods, grains, and protein sources. Some food banks may also offer fresh produce and perishable items.

Religious institutions

Many churches, synagogues, and other religious institutions offer free meals to those in need. These meals may be served at specific times or on certain days of the week.

Community gardens

Some cities have community gardens where individuals can grow their own food. These gardens may be open to the general public or may be available to specific groups, like homeless individuals.

Freeganism

Freeganism is a lifestyle choice in which individuals choose to eat food that would otherwise go to waste. This can include food from dumpsters or discarded food from grocery stores or restaurants. While this option may not be for everyone, it can be a way to find food for free in a pinch.

Low-cost meal options

If you have some money, there are some inexpensive meal options you can try. You can learn more about those here.

Survival foods

If you have the ability to start a small fire and have some flour and water, you can make a recipe from the 1800s called ash cakes, or fire cakes. You can learn how to do that here.

Oklahoma is home to many different kinds of edible wild plants. If you are willing to take the time to learn how to properly identify the plants, you may be able to find some to survive on for a while. You can learn about some of the different edible wild plants that grow in Oklahoma by going here.

 

Where to Find Water

Water fountains

Many public places, like parks, libraries, and schools, have water fountains where you can get a drink of water for free. These fountains are typically located in public restrooms or other easily accessible areas.

Water bottle filling stations

Some cities have water bottle filling stations that are designed to provide free drinking water to the public. These stations are often located in public parks, on college campuses, and at other locations where people may be out and about.

Convenience stores and fast food restaurants

Many convenience stores and fast food restaurants will allow you to use their restrooms and fill up a water bottle for free. While you may not be able to sit and drink the water in these establishments, you can fill up a bottle and take the water with you.

Religious institutions

Many churches, synagogues, and other religious institutions offer free drinks and snacks to those in need. These facilities may have water available for you to drink or may be able to provide you with a bottled water.

Community events

Many cities host community events, like festivals and fairs, that offer free drinks and snacks to attendees. These events may have water available for you to drink or may be able to provide you with a bottled water.

Creeks or rivers

If there is a nearby creek or river, you may be able to drink the water IF you can find a way to purify it first. You can learn more about how to do that here.

 

It's important to note that while these options can provide free water for drinking, the quality and availability of the water may vary.

 

Disclaimer: The information in this guide provides no guarantees and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice.