Feeding the Hungry: Middle Georgia Community Food Bank Expands to Meet Growing Demand

In a region where food insecurity has risen by a staggering 25%, the Middle Georgia Community Food Bank is taking bold steps to address the growing need. With a newly expanded and renovated facility, the organization is poised to serve more individuals and families in Central Georgia than ever before.

Empowering Communities, One Meal at a Time

Addressing the Alarming Rise in Food Insecurity

The Middle Georgia Community Food Bank's annual update paints a sobering picture of the region's food insecurity crisis. CEO Kathy McCollum revealed that a staggering 100,000 people in Central Georgia are currently in need of food assistance, with more than 38,000 of them being children. This alarming statistic represents a 25% increase in food insecurity, underscoring the urgent need for the food bank's services.The expansion of the food bank's facilities is a direct response to this growing crisis. McCollum acknowledged that the organization's old building was holding them back from reaching their full potential, with limited space and inadequate resources to effectively serve the 24-county area under their purview. "The office area was very small. We had staff people literally sharing spaces," she explained. "We didn't have the staff that we needed to work in the communities across our 24 county area."

Transforming the Food Bank's Capabilities

The newly renovated and expanded food bank facility is a game-changer in the fight against hunger. The packing area has tripled in size, allowing the organization to accommodate more volunteers and streamline their operations. "Previously when volunteers would come, they would still enjoyed the experience but it was a little less comfortable, maybe a little crowded," said Shealeigh Golden, a site coordinator at Geico who helps plan group-volunteer trips four to five times a week. "And we couldn't send as many volunteers out."The expansion includes an additional 4,594 square feet for the lobby and administrative space, as well as the renovation of 3,249 square feet of existing administrative space. This additional space will enable the food bank to host more employees and volunteers, enhancing their ability to reach more individuals and families in need.

Funding the Transformation

The expansion and renovation of the Middle Georgia Community Food Bank was made possible through a collaborative effort between local and state governments. The Georgia Department of Community Affairs awarded Macon-Bibb County a ,318,898 Community Development Block Grant, which was then matched by the county with 3,814 from its American Rescue Plan funds.This significant investment in the food bank's infrastructure underscores the importance of addressing food insecurity in the region. By providing the necessary resources and facilities, the food bank can now operate more efficiently and effectively, ensuring that more individuals and families have access to the nutritious food they need to thrive.

Empowering Volunteers to Make a Difference

The expanded food bank facility has also created more opportunities for volunteers to get involved and make a tangible impact. Shealeigh Golden, the Geico site coordinator, expressed her enthusiasm for the new space, noting that it allows for a more comfortable and productive volunteer experience."Now, thanks to their packing area tripling in size, they can get more hands-on help from volunteers like Shealeigh Golden, to keep up with demand," the article states. This increased volunteer capacity is crucial in the face of rising food insecurity, as the food bank relies on the dedication and hard work of its volunteers to distribute food to those in need.By empowering volunteers and providing them with the resources they need to succeed, the Middle Georgia Community Food Bank is not only addressing the immediate need for food assistance but also fostering a sense of community and civic engagement. This holistic approach to tackling food insecurity is a testament to the organization's commitment to making a lasting difference in the lives of those it serves.