In Atlanta 80,600 people are served each week by programs supported by the Atlanta Community Food Bank (ACFB). The faces of hunger in Atlanta might not be who you thin-- military veterans, the working poor, immigrants, refugees, the elderly.
Food insecurity in Atlanta is a big problem but there are many small, even fun, ways you can give to the community that make a big difference.
Attend a special event. Throughout the year, hunger-fighting organizations like the Atlanta Community Food Bank and MUST Ministries host fun events to raise money for their cause.
On August 21, the ACFB hosts their annual Can Can Ball; September 9 is the Tangerine Tango Fashion Show at Bloomingdale's; Canstruction will set up in November. Be on the lookout for the annual Hunger Walk/Run next March.
MUST Ministries is hosting their annual MUST Charity Golf Tournament on September 21 at Pinetree Country Club.
Learn how to cook. It's true! You can learn how to cook special dishes from some of Atlanta's best chefs and all the money raised goes toward ACFB programs. Each month's Simple Abundance class has a different theme and chef. Upcoming events include classes from chef Kevin Gillespie from Gunshow and Revival, and Linda Harrell of Cibo e Beve.ba
Show off your organization skills. Local food pantries are always looking for individuals and groups to help sort food. The ACFB has regularly scheduled work days in their Product Rescue Center and individuals are invited to help out at their community gardens.
Participate in Hunger Action Month. This September, ACFB is encouraging Atlantans to help spread the word about hunger in the community with a month of events and activities that can easily take place at an office, church or around a dinner table. Atlantic Station is planning a month's worth of family-friendly activities to coincide with Hunger Action Month.
Spend a day at work. Instead of heading to the office, help your company organize a community volunteer day to work with your local food bank to help others. From stacking and storage to serving and sorting, there's always something to be done.
Donate. If you find it hard to have enough hours in your day to donate time at the ACFB or one of the region's other food banks, your monetary donation can help multiple families. Each $1 donated translates into $9 worth of groceries for an individual or family in need.
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