Emergency Fund to Tackle Surge in Food Insecurity Amid Rising Costs
In response to the growing pressures of food costs on struggling families, the Atlanta Community Food Bank announces today the establishment of a $5 million emergency fund to support the purchase of additional food over the next six months for its network of partner organizations. The emergency fund will be used to purchase essential food items, including fresh produce, protein-rich foods, dairy, and pantry staples. These partner organizations include food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, and senior meal programs that serve metro Atlanta and north Georgia neighbors.
Demand for food assistance has grown 60% over the last two years. The Food Bank is currently serving approximately 240,000 households a month, representing more than 11% of the population. Today, hunger is hiding in plain sight, with demand reaching levels greater than during the pandemic. This unprecedented response by the Food Bank is due to the extraordinary need happening in our community.
"Rising food prices and the ongoing economic pressures of inflation, have left many of our neighbors in crisis," said Kyle Waide, President and CEO of the Atlanta Community Food Bank. "In the last two years alone, we have seen an unprecedented spike in demand for food assistance. This $5 million emergency fund will allow us to increase our food distribution capacity and help our partner agencies meet the needs of the thousands of individuals and families who are turning to food banks for support."
This initiative directly addresses the rising impact of inflation on households looking to make ends meet and will help ensure that more families can access the nutritious food they need. The Food Bank has already begun mobilizing funds to purchase food in bulk and is working closely with local farmers, national suppliers, and corporate partners to maximize purchasing power and meet the urgent needs of its network.
"Families that once relied on food banks sporadically are now needing consistent support," said Waide. “This emergency fund is a vital step forward to help meet increased demand, as we aim to ensure that everyone has access to the food they need. The Food Bank is incredibly grateful to our donors, partners, and supporters who make it possible for us to continue our work in times of crisis."
These funds are in addition to the 100 million pounds of donated products and government commodities the Food Bank receives every year. The organization is also working with community groups and volunteers to help distribute the increased supply to those who need it most.
The Atlanta Community Food Bank invites individuals, businesses, and organizations to contribute during these challenging times, either through direct donations or by organizing food drives, to help provide long-term relief. For more information about the Atlanta Community Food Bank, including how you can get involved or donate, visit https://www.acfb.org.
About Atlanta Community Food Bank
The Atlanta Community Food Bank works to end hunger with the food, people, and big ideas needed to ensure our neighbors have the nourishment to lead healthy and productive lives. Far too many people in our own community experience hunger every day. Through nearly 700 community-based, nonprofit partners in 29 counties, we help thousands of families, children, and seniors get healthy food every year. Our goal is that all hungry people across metro Atlanta and north Georgia will have access to the nutritious meals they need when they need them. It takes the power of our whole community to make that possible. In 2023, the Atlanta Community Food Bank distributed its one billionth meal. Join us at ACFB.org.
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