As the President and CEO of the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia, one of my favorite quotes comes from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop” speech, where he reflects on the parable of the Good Samaritan: “The question is not, ‘What will happen to me if I help?’ but ‘What will happen to my neighbor if I do not help?’”
That quote remains a guiding light for our work—because the truth is, hunger is often invisible. Yet it affects more than 91,000 people in our region, including 1 in 6 children and 1 in 12 seniors. Food insecurity is a profoundly human experience, and one that causes deep and daily stress. It demands from all of us not only empathy, but action.
At the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia, we believe that nourishment and dignity go hand in hand. That belief shows up in every decision we make, every partnership we form, and every pound of food we distribute. And it is a reflection of the sacred worth of each neighbor we are honored to serve.
One neighbor had this to share with us: “I work 6 days a week and have for 6 years now. I take care of my mom who lives with me. No matter how hard I try it seems like I can barely keep my head above water. Thank you for being so nice and not making people feel embarrassed.”
Another person bravely said, “if it wasn’t for y’all I wouldn’t eat.”
In 2024, our partnership network in Habersham County helped distribute 1,180,833 pounds of food—totaling 984,028 meals—to neighbors across the county. These meals supported families, children, seniors, and others facing food insecurity, with more than half of the food being fresh or frozen—fruits, vegetables, dairy, and protein—bringing both nourishment and hope. So far in 2025, we’ve already distributed 645,471 pounds of food in Habersham County, keeping pace with rising need and deepening our investment in community well-being.
We’ve doubled our food purchasing efforts, deepened partnerships with Georgia farmers, and coordinated closely with schools, congregations, and community organizations. When federal food deliveries were unexpectedly cut, our team pivoted—thanks to the generosity of donors and supporters who made it possible to keep shelves stocked and fridges full.
But we cannot do this work alone.
This is a moment that calls for more Good Samaritans—those willing to stop, help, and ask the right question. If you’ve ever packed a box of food, shared your table, or offered a gift to help a neighbor, you already understand the kind of world we’re building.
Join us. Visit foodbanknega.org to volunteer, donate, or partner. Because food is essential—and what is essential should never be negotiable.
In strength,
Erin Barger
President & CEO
Food Bank of Northeast Georgia
