The Food Bank, Inc. in Statesboro is humbled to announce that nearly 1 million (950,306) meals were distributed in 2024, reflecting the organization’s growing impact on food insecurity in Bulloch County and surrounding areas.
Over 105,399 meals were distributed in December to 1,565 families, and partnerships with area agencies and churches helped extend the reach to underserved communities.
Food insecurity remains a significant challenge throughout Georgia. According to Feeding America, 13.1% of Georgians have difficulty accessing their next meal, with children being disproportionately affected. 18.4% of Georgia's children live in homes that are food insecure.
“Our vision has always been about more than meals,” said Executive Director, Sheila Stewart-Leach. “It’s about creating a productive, healthier, hunger-free community. With our new facility, we are building the capacity to serve hundreds of families every day of the week and ensuring that no one in our region goes hungry. We are already seeing our impact throughout the fall season with over 112,560 meals provided in November; since July in the new facility, over 691,341 meals were provided to 8,936 families. In contrast, during our tenure at Morgan Way from January to June, we provided 258,965 meals to 2,613 families. Over the twelve months, 950,306 meals went to 11,549 families or 42,081 individuals, many of which are children and seniors.”
Real Impact, Real Stories
The Food Bank has a significant impact on families throughout the region. One mother expressed, “With rising prices, it’s been difficult to make ends meet. The Food Bank has been an enormous help in feeding my family when we needed it most.”
Another client, recovering from a disabling accident, shared, “It’s truly a blessing. I don’t know what I would have done without this support.”
These stories are not unique and reflect the real need of real people in our communities.
Looking Ahead
As Phase II construction begins at the new facility at 506 Miller Street, The Food Bank is poised to address the growing demand for hunger relief and nutritional education. Beyond meal distribution, the state-of-the-art facility will include classrooms, a commercial kitchen, a dining hall, emergency equipment and fruit and veggie gardens designed to empower individuals and families.
“Our new facility is helping us redefine what a food bank can be, and even with these incredible numbers, we know we’ve only scratched the surface of what we’re capable of achieving,” added Stewart-Leach. “This milestone is a testament to what’s possible when a community comes together to help our most vulnerable.”
About The Food Bank, Inc.
Founded in 1987, The Food Bank, Inc. works to eliminate hunger and improve community health through access to nutritious foods, education, and advocacy. The founder of expansive programs like the Weekly Meal Box program, the Food Drop, and Rebecca’s Kitchen, the Food Bank has transitioned to become the compassionate, accessible resource needed when we help our neighbors through personal and life changing disasters.
The Food Bank appreciates its many partners, churches, civic clubs, businesses and individuals; we could not help without your help. In particular, the United Way and Second Harvest, our Feeding America partner provide ongoing monthly support for food for our families. We are grateful to all who assist.
The Food Bank is located at 506 Miller Street at Northside Drive West. Its public service hours are currently Monday-Friday 10am-3:30pm (Tuesdays at 11am) and Saturdays, 8:30am-12:30pm. Offices are open daily (except Sunday) at 8:30am until 4:00pm and on Saturday until 12:30pm.
For more information, visit www.statesborofoodbank.org or call 912-386-1462.