The Atlanta Community Food Bank recently announced its 2025 Hunger Champions, recognizing individuals and organizations that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to fighting hunger in the community. The awards highlight five categories: Food Donor of the Year, Partner Agency of the Year, Public Official of the Year, Supporters of the Year, and Volunteer of the Year. These recognitions come at a critical time as food insecurity continues to rise in Georgia and funding sources shift, making community support more essential than ever.
Kyle Waide, President & CEO of the Atlanta Community Food Bank, emphasized the importance of these partnerships. "As food insecurity continues to rise in Georgia and funding sources shift, we depend on our community more than ever to sustain vital programs for neighbors in need," Waide stated. "Our Hunger Champions embody true community leadership, generously committing their time and resources to the fight against hunger."
The Kroger Company received Food Donor of the Year honors for their consistent support since launching their partnership with the Food Bank in 1999. Their contributions have grown significantly, with current donations occurring seven days a week. Last year alone, Kroger helped provide more than three million pounds of food, including more than 1.4 million pounds of perishable items such as meat, deli items, refrigerated products, and produce. Their regular collaboration ensures donations effectively meet local community needs.
Margie's House earned Partner Agency of the Year recognition for distributing more than 409,000 pounds of food, with over 42 percent being fresh produce. The organization also served as the largest Commodity Supplemental Food Program partner with an allotment of 371 boxes. Their comprehensive approach includes additional services such as a clothing closet and community garden, with Saturday distributions making food more accessible to community members.
Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper was named Public Official of the Year for his continuous support of the Atlanta Community Food Bank and all eight Georgia food banks. His office has worked to increase the state budget for the Georgia Grown Farm to Food Bank Program while advocating for food banks' critical work. Commissioner Harper has testified about how this program helps organizations meet growing demand and has expanded awareness among state officials and legislators.
The Schoen Foundation received Supporters of the Year honors for their $1.5 million investment in addressing food insecurity across metro Atlanta and north Georgia. Their contribution included $1 million toward the Transforming the Neighbor Experience campaign, supporting the expansion of the Community Food Center model and accelerating Digital Transformation at the Food Bank. This funding also helped procure, store, and distribute nearly 1.5 million meals directly to neighbors in need.
Raymond Wright was recognized as Volunteer of the Year for his vital contributions at the Stone Mountain Community Food Center. His dedication includes carrying groceries through adverse weather conditions and warmly welcoming visitors while helping serve more than 180 households daily. The center distributes more than 150,000 pounds of food each month, with staff relying on Wright's knowledge, dependability, and practical assistance.
The Atlanta Community Food Bank, the Southeast's largest food bank, connects more than 820,000 people with healthy and nutritious food annually through more than 700 nonprofit partners. For additional information about their work, visit https://www.acfb.org. These Hunger Champion awards underscore the critical importance of community collaboration in addressing food insecurity and ensuring vulnerable populations receive essential nutritional support during challenging economic times.
