Now over 20 years after its founding, the Arlington Food Assistance Center remains dedicated to its simple but critical mission of obtaining and distributing groceries, directly and free of charge, to people living in Arlington who cannot afford to purchase enough food to meet their basic needs.

AFAC operates under the Choice Model. This means that we try to provide as much choice as possible in the foods that a family can take away from AFAC. The Choice Model has been proven to reduce waste, as families are more likely to eat foods they choose to take home. We provide different kinds of meats, breads, and canned goods. We allow choice between 1% milk and 2% milk. We offer a variety of baked goods for families. When produce is available, families are often able to choose between 2 or 3 types. In addition, we are seriously committed to distributing as much nutritious food as possible. We buy meats, milk, eggs and other fresh items, so that families, especially mothers and babies, can get the nutrition they need.