The Atlanta Community Food Bank is rallying Georgians to 'Play Your Part' this September during Hunger Action Month, as the organization reports serving more neighbors than at any point in its history—70% more than in 2022. The Food Bank, which serves a 29-county region in metro Atlanta and north Georgia, is responding to a growing crisis driven by rising housing, health care, and grocery costs, compounded by recent changes to SNAP eligibility that have left many households without critical support.
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 the region in 2024—that's 1 in 7 neighbors. The situation is particularly dire for those who fall into the gap between earning too much to qualify for federal assistance and too little to cover basic expenses. More than 68% of people facing hunger in the Food Bank's service area may not qualify for SNAP, up from 62% in 2023. For children, the figure is even more alarming: 40% of food-insecure children may not qualify for food assistance programs, a significant jump from 31% the previous year.
The recent SNAP policy changes have already impacted over 100,000 Georgians, with nearly 40% of them being children. Further reductions could take effect this fall, adding more strain on households already stretched thin. Kyle Waide, president and CEO of the Atlanta Community Food Bank, emphasized the reality for many families: '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. That gap is where the Food Bank lives, and it is growing.'
During Hunger Action Month, the Food Bank encourages the community to take part in several ways. Donations made in September will be matched dollar for dollar up to $100,000, with every dollar providing up to six meals. Gifts can be made at Donate | Atlanta Community Food Bank. Volunteers can sign up for shifts at the Food Bank's East Point headquarters or at Community Food Centers in Jonesboro, Stone Mountain, Marietta, and Atlanta, with available slots listed at acfb.org/volunteer.
The Food Bank is also promoting a '30 Ways in 30 Days' challenge on social media throughout September, offering daily actions to fight hunger. Supporters are encouraged to wear orange, the color of hunger relief, to raise awareness. Additionally, the Food Bank urges people to advocate for policies that address the root causes of hunger through Feeding America Action.
Hunger Action Day is set for Tuesday, Sept. 29, when landmarks across Atlanta are expected to light up orange. Hunger Action Month is observed annually by the Feeding America network of more than 250 food banks nationwide. Supporters can share their actions using #HungerActionMonth and tagging @acfb.
The Atlanta Community Food Bank works to end hunger through partnerships with more than 700 community-based nonprofit organizations across 29 counties. In 2023, the Food Bank distributed its one billionth meal. As the demand for food assistance continues to rise, the organization's call to action underscores the urgent need for community involvement to ensure all neighbors have access to nutritious meals.
