The Atlanta Community Food Bank announced today that a $32,000 grant from the Morgan Stanley Foundation will support its programs to more effectively reach children and families facing hunger in Atlanta and north Georgia. The grant will go toward purchasing food for school pantry partners distributing meals in June and July, a critical period when many children lose access to school-based nutrition programs.
Food insecurity remains a pressing issue across the United States, affecting every county, parish, and borough. In the Food Bank's 29-county service area, one in eight people, including one in six children, face hunger. "Every child should have access to the nutritious food they need to grow, learn and thrive. But during the summer, when school is not in session, many children lack access to food," said Kyle Waide, President and CEO of the Atlanta Community Food Bank. "During these challenging months, support from the Morgan Stanley Foundation helps ensure kids in Atlanta and north Georgia can get nourishing food for their well-being today and brighter futures tomorrow."
The Atlanta Community Food Bank is one of 33 Feeding America partner food banks receiving funding from the Morgan Stanley Foundation this year, part of a long-standing commitment to supporting children's health nationwide. Since 2009, the foundation has partnered with Feeding America to provide more than $50 million for hunger-relief programs that deliver food assistance and nutritious meals to children and families across the country. "We are proud to support the Feeding America network of food banks and their critical work to reach communities facing hunger across the country," said Joan Steinberg, President of the Morgan Stanley Foundation.
The grant emphasizes the importance of summer meal programs, which bridge the gap when school is out. According to Feeding America, summer hunger is a significant challenge for low-income families, as children lose access to free or reduced-price school meals. The Atlanta Community Food Bank works with more than 700 community-based nonprofit partners in 29 counties to distribute food to families, children, and seniors. In 2023, the organization distributed its one billionth meal. For more information about its efforts, visit ACFB.org.
This grant underscores the ongoing need for community support to address food insecurity, particularly among vulnerable populations. The funds will enable the Food Bank to purchase and distribute food through school pantry partners, ensuring that children and families have access to nutritious meals during the summer months. The partnership between the Morgan Stanley Foundation and Feeding America exemplifies how corporate philanthropy can make a tangible difference in local communities.