Feeding America has released its annual Map the Meal Gap study, which monitors food insecurity across the nation. Food insecurity affects communities in every county, parish, and congressional district in the U.S. This year’s results reveal a concerning trend in Georgia: 1 in 5 children are facing hunger, up from 1 in 8 last year. The study also found that nearly 50% of people facing hunger may not qualify for SNAP benefits due to income thresholds. In Georgia, this percentage is even higher, with 68% exceeding the SNAP eligibility threshold. The study’s results come as at-risk Georgia children approach the critical summer months when they lack access to school feeding programs.
“This year’s study confirms what we see every day at the Food Bank — more and more kids and families are struggling with food insecurity for various reasons, including elevated food costs and limited access to healthy foods,” said Kyle Waide, President & CEO of the Atlanta Community Food Bank. “As we enter the summer months, the need is even greater, and we look to our community to help fill the gap, so no Georgia child goes hungry.”
For families seeking their nearest feeding site, text “FINDFOOD” or “COMIDA” to 888-976-2232, or visit the Atlanta Community Food Bank’s website to use the interactive map to locate nearby food pantries.
The Atlanta Community Food Bank is the Southeast’s largest food bank, distributing an average of 11 million pounds of food, or approximately 9 million meals, each month. The organization partners with nearly 700 nonprofits to combat food insecurity in their communities.
For more information about the Atlanta Community Food Bank, including how you can help, visi
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.
