Atlanta Community Food Bank Urges Georgians to 'Play Your Part' During Hunger Action Month as Need Soars

The Atlanta Community Food Bank is calling on Georgians to 'Play Your Part' this September during Hunger Action Month, as the organization faces unprecedented demand and policy changes that are straining households across the region. The Food Bank, which serves as the central logistics hub for a 29-county area, reports it is currently providing food to 70% more neighbors than it did in 2022. According to Feeding America's most recent Map the Meal Gap study, more than 900,000 people, including over 293,000 children, experienced food insecurity in 2024 across metro Atlanta and north Georgia—representing 1 in 7 neighbors.

The urgency is compounded by recent changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Over 100,000 Georgians, nearly 40% of whom are children, have lost SNAP benefits under modifications enacted last year, with further reductions possible this fall. The Food Bank notes that more than 68% of people facing hunger in its service area may not qualify for SNAP, up from 62% in 2023. Additionally, 40% of food-insecure children may now be ineligible for food assistance programs, a significant rise from 31%.

'The majority of the neighbors we serve are working. More than two-thirds of our neighbors facing hunger earn too much to qualify for SNAP and too little to cover groceries once rent, gas, and health care are paid,' said Kyle Waide, president and CEO of the Atlanta Community Food Bank. 'That gap is where the Food Bank lives, and it is growing. During Hunger Action Month, we encourage the community to give, volunteer, and speak up, and join us in our work to help close that gap.'

To address this growing need, the Food Bank is offering multiple ways for the public to get involved. Individuals can make a monetary donation, which will be matched dollar for dollar up to $100,000 throughout September. Every $1 can provide up to six meals. Gifts can be made at the Donate page. Volunteers are also needed to sort and package food at the Food Bank's East Point headquarters or at Community Food Centers in Jonesboro, Stone Mountain, Marietta, and Atlanta. Available shifts can be found at ACFB volunteer opportunities.

The Food Bank is also promoting a '30 Ways in 30 Days' challenge on social media, which offers daily suggestions for actions to fight hunger. Supporters are encouraged to wear orange, the color of hunger relief, and to advocate for policies that address food insecurity by exploring resources such as the Feeding America Action page. Hunger Action Day is set for Tuesday, September 29, when Atlanta landmarks are expected to 'Light Up Orange' to raise awareness.

This year's Hunger Action Month comes at a critical time. The rising cost of housing, health care, and groceries, combined with SNAP eligibility changes, has pushed more neighbors into a precarious situation. The Atlanta Community Food Bank, which distributed its one billionth meal in 2023, relies on the support of the community to meet the escalating demand. By giving, volunteering, or speaking up, Georgians can play a part in ensuring that no neighbor goes without the nourishment needed to lead a healthy and productive life.