More than half a million children in Georgia don’t have consistent access to enough nutritious food. This can have long-term effects on their health and future. Kids who are food insecure are more likely to be held back a grade in elementary school, more likely to be sick and hospitalized, and more likely to have growth and developmental issues.

People who live in rural Georgia face hunger at higher rates, in part because of the unique challenges living remotely presents. These challenges include an increased likelihood of food deserts with the nearest food pantry or food bank potentially hours away, job opportunities that are more concentrated in low-wage industries, and higher rates of unemployment and underemployment.

For many seniors who are on tight post-retirement budgets, unexpected expenses lead to difficult financial decisions like having to choose between food, medicine and utilities. They often cut out more expensive, healthy foods to make ends meet. Unlike working age adults, seniors are less likely to recover from financial strain and are more likely to suffer negative health consequences from a poor diet.

Often the families we serve have at least one working adult in the household. This means that people are trying to make ends meet but they’re underemployed. Their job might pay too much for them to qualify for government benefits, but it’s not enough to provide for a family.