Frequently Asked Questions

Our Non-Discrimination Statement

Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard will not engage in discrimination in the provision of service against any person because of race, color, citizenship, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation including gender identity, unfavorable discharge from the military, or status as a protected veteran.

What Our Clients Are Saying About Us

An abundance of kindness from everyone helping here: cheerful and grateful to be giving, it seems, to no end! I consider it as a hidden gem to people that don’t know. I struggle to pay rent as I’m on a fixed income, and I’d not eat for some weeks, if not for these wonderful folks. I am grateful for your service. No judgment zone friendly folks and a good amount of food.

What kinds of food do Clients receive from the Cupboard and how often?

Any needy individual or family may come to Mother Hubbard's Cupboard to receive a 2-3 days supply of emergency food, once a week, three times a month. People without stoves receive a smaller amount of food and are served weekly. Those requesting food self-declared their need. Clients include local people who are in need of assistance. Special Services are available to address toiletry, diabetic, and infant needs.

Cupboard Clients generally receive both shelf-stable and frozen groceries. A portion of the food provided to Clients comes from Community donations, and the remainder comes from a Federal Government Program called The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), which is a part of the US Department of Agriculture, and funded by the Farm Bill.

How often can a Client come to the Cupboard?

Clients with access to working appliances may come to the Cupboard 3 times per calendar month. Clients can expect to receive from 2-3 days of emergency food per visit.

Clients without stoves to cook on, or refrigerators can come to the Cupboard once per calendar week; these clients get a reduced amount of food on each visit, typically enough to last 2-3 days.

Information you will need in order to pick up food for any household

  • Name and Birthdate of Head of Household
  • Number and Ages of People in the Household
  • Does the Household Receive Food Stamps
  • Address including Zip Code
  • Dietary Restrictions (ie: Diabetic)

When is the Cupboard open?

Mother Hubbard's is open on Wednesdays and Saturdays from noon - 3 pm.

Mother Hubbard's is Usually Closed on the Following Dates:

Martin Luther King Monday in January, 2nd Saturday in April (Azalea Festival), Memorial Day Monday, July 4th, Labor Day Monday, Thanksgiving Saturday December 25th, December 26th and January 1st. Mother Hubbard's makes every effort to remain open despite weather issues. If enough volunteers can make it in, the Cupboard will be open.

When in doubt, please call 910-762-2199 to get up to date information on closing.

What can I donate to the Cupboard?

See the DONATE page for me information.

How can I volunteer?

Our Volunteer page will help get you started volunteering with us.

Are public bathrooms available at the Cupboard?

Unfortunately, the Cupboard has no Public Restrooms. However, Public Restrooms are available at the Main Branch of the New Hanover County Public Library on 2nd St. and at Service Stations near the Cupboard.

Does the Cupboard have a 990 Form?

Yes, we do. Please click here to view our 990 Form.

We're Here To Support You.