
Client Choice Food Pantry
Receiving Food Assistance at the San Diego Food Bank's Vista Location
The San Diego Food Bank’s North County location offers individuals and families in need of food assistance access to our onsite Client Choice Food Pantry.
Client Choice Food Pantry
The pantry is set up similarly to a neighborhood grocery store. The pantry offers a variety of fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, meats, dairy products, baked goods, nonperishable canned food items, diapers for infants & toddlers, and period supplies.
Pantry clients shop by appointment only and can self-select the foods that best meet their dietary needs and preferences. Each household can schedule an appointment to visit our pantry every two weeks. Walk-ins are welcome and will receive a pre-packaged food allocation.

Client Choice Food Pantry Hours – By Appointment Only
Saturday and Monday: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Tuesday through Friday: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
(Closed every 4th Thursday of the month)
*For a list of holiday closures, please scroll to the bottom of the page.
If this is your first time shopping, you can stop by without an appointment. Before shopping, you will complete an intake form and receive a brief introduction to set you up for your future visits. A San Diego Food Bank ID card will be available for pick-up two weeks after your initial visit.
- No documentation needed
- Bring your reusable grocery bags
- Service animals are welcome
- Diapers and period supplies are available in the pantry, while supplies last
If these hours do not work with your schedule, we encourage you to use the Food Bank’s Food Locator Map to find a distribution site that fits your availability.
Please keep in mind that the Pantry will be closed on the following Federal holidays. Please plan accordingly should you need food assistance around these dates.