HR 461: Food Bank of Northeast Georgia; mission of connecting neighbors with nourishing food, its expansion to better serve communities across Northeast Georgia & ongoing contributions to economic stability, workforce development & community well-being; commend

House Resolution 461

By: Representatives Gaines of the 120th, Wiedower of the 121st, Rhodes of the 124th, Frye of the 122nd, and Persinger of the 119th

A RESOLUTION

Honoring the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia for its mission of connecting neighbors with nourishing food, its expansion to better serve communities across Northeast Georgia, and its ongoing contributions to economic stability, workforce development, and community well-being; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, a thriving workforce, strong families, and a resilient economy all rely on access to nutritious food, ensuring that Georgians can learn, work, and contribute to their communities without the burden of food insecurity; and

WHEREAS, the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia has been a beacon of hope and provision for families across the region, distributing over 15.5 million pounds in 2024 across its 15-county service area, reinforcing the importance of community-based solutions to food insecurity; and

WHEREAS, through deep-rooted partnerships with Georgia's farmers, businesses, faith-based organizations, nonprofits, and local leaders, the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia transforms every dollar into real impact, leveraging resources to serve those in need with compassion, dignity, and efficacy; and

WHEREAS, the recent expansion of the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia, including the construction of a state-of-the-art 65,000-square-foot facility in Athens, marks a significant step toward ensuring greater food distribution capacity, reduction of food waste, and the enhancement of services to families across Northeast Georgia; and

WHEREAS, food insecurity impacts working families, seniors on fixed incomes, children who rely on school meal programs, and veterans who have bravely served our nation, underscoring the essential nature of food and the role it plays in both our humanity and ability to reach our individual and collective potential; and

WHEREAS, the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia's commitment to strengthening local food systems also benefits Georgia's agricultural sector by sourcing fresh, locally grown produce and building farm-to-table initiatives that keep food local, sustainable, and accessible; and

WHEREAS, ensuring Northeast Georgia families have access to a variety of food not only improves educational outcomes for children but also strengthens the workforce and increases economic independence, reinforcing the vital role of food security in our communities and the immeasurable impact of the family table; and

WHEREAS, public-private investments in food security reflect Georgia's values of responsible government, strong families, and economic prosperity, as every dollar invested in hunger relief leverages taxpayer dollars into the Georgia economy while expanding grocery budgets when necessary.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that the members of this body commend the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia for its mission of connecting neighbors with nourishing food, its expansion to better serve families, and its continued commitment to fighting food insecurity through innovative, community-driven solutions.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the members of this body recognize the vital role food security plays in ensuring Georgia remains a place where every family has the opportunity to thrive and express their support for efforts that uphold the well-being of Georgia's families, veterans, seniors, and children.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia.