As the economic pressures of housing, health care, and grocery costs continue to mount, and recent changes to SNAP eligibility have left many households struggling, the Atlanta Community Food Bank is calling on Georgians to 'Play Your Part' this Hunger Action Month. The initiative, part of the nationwide Feeding America network, aims to mobilize the community to take action to ensure that neighbors have access to the food they need to thrive.
The Food Bank, which serves as the central logistics hub for a 29-county region, is currently serving more neighbors than at any point in its history—a 70% increase compared to 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 across metro Atlanta and north Georgia in 2024. That translates to 1 in 7 neighbors facing hunger.
Compounding the issue, more than 100,000 Georgians—close to 40% of them children—have lost SNAP benefits under changes enacted last year, with further reductions potentially taking effect this fall. Moreover, over 68% of people facing hunger in the Food Bank's service area may not qualify for SNAP, up from 62% in 2023. For food-insecure children, 40% may not qualify for food assistance programs, up from 31%.
Kyle Waide, president and CEO of the Atlanta Community Food Bank, highlighted the paradox many families face: '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, we encourage the community to give, volunteer, and speak up, and join us in our work to help close that gap.'
The Food Bank is offering several ways for individuals to get involved throughout September. Donations made during the month 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 times listed at acfb.org/volunteer.
The Food Bank is also promoting a '30 Ways in 30 Days' challenge on social media to raise awareness and offer daily suggestions for fighting hunger. Supporters are encouraged to wear orange, the color of hunger relief, throughout the month to show support. Additionally, the Food Bank urges community members to advocate for policies that address the root causes of hunger, with more information available at Feeding America Action.
Hunger Action Day is Tuesday, Sept. 29, when landmarks across Atlanta are expected to light up orange to draw attention to the cause. By participating in these efforts, Georgians can play a vital role in alleviating the growing hunger crisis in their communities.
