Middle Georgia Food Bank Completes Expansion and Renovation

The Middle Georgia Community Food Bank celebrated the completion of its expansion and renovations to its hub facility on Ocmulgee East Boulevard on Thursday, August 8. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by Mayor Lester Miller, representatives from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, Feeding Georgia, and various community partners.

The expansion was funded by state and local American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds. The Georgia Department of Community Affairs provided a $2,318,898 Community Development Block Grant, with Macon-Bibb County contributing an additional $993,814 in ARP funds.

“Through the incredible investment by Macon-Bibb County and the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, Middle Georgia Community Food Bank is more prepared to meet the needs of our neighbors facing food insecurity,” said Middle Georgia Community Food Bank President & CEO Kathy McCollum. “Thank you for equipping us to improve access to food assistance across 24 counties.”

Following the ceremony, attendees toured the upgraded facility, including the new volunteer packing room, which is three times larger than the previous one. On the morning of the event, volunteers packed 250 food boxes, equivalent to 4,018 meals. GEICO employee Lauren Roan Parks, a volunteer, praised the improvements, stating, “It was a little more cramped before. I love the energy they brought – the open area, lights, mission statements, graphics. It’s such a beautiful space for volunteers. It’s also a great team bonding activity.”

The expansion includes an additional 4,594 square feet for the lobby and administrative areas and the renovation of 3,249 square feet of existing space for meetings, trainings, and volunteer activities. These upgrades are designed to improve accessibility, operational efficiency, and volunteer involvement.