My husbands old church had a food pantry for dry/canned goods but it was not advertised outside of the congregation. He'd buy cases of soup, Mr noodles or kraft dinner whenever there was a good deal. It wasn't meant to be a regular resource but more of a way for people to get something to eat for a day or two in emergencies until better, more stable help was available or while they were waiting for a cheque or benefits to come in.