25 LC 112 3139 House Resolution 461 By: Representatives Gaines of the 120 th , Wiedower of the 121 st , Rhodes of the 124 th , Frye of the 122 nd , and Persinger of the 119 th A RESOLUTION Honoring the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia for its mission of connecting neighbors with 1 nourishing food, its expansion to better serve communities across Northeast Georgia, and its2 ongoing contributions to economic stability, workforce development, and community3 well-being; and for other purposes.4 WHEREAS, a thriving workforce, strong families, and a resilient economy all rely on access5 to nutritious food, ensuring that Georgians can learn, work, and contribute to their6 communities without the burden of food insecurity; and7 WHEREAS, the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia has been a beacon of hope and provision8 for families across the region, distributing over 15.5 million pounds in 2024 across its9 15-county service area, reinforcing the importance of community-based solutions to food10 insecurity; and11 WHEREAS, through deep-rooted partnerships with Georgia's farmers, businesses,12 faith-based organizations, nonprofits, and local leaders, the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia13 transforms every dollar into real impact, leveraging resources to serve those in need with14 compassion, dignity, and efficacy; and15 H. R. 461 - 1 - 25 LC 112 3139 WHEREAS, the recent expansion of the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia, including the 16 construction of a state-of-the-art 65,000-square-foot facility in Athens, marks a significant17 step toward ensuring greater food distribution capacity, reduction of food waste, and the18 enhancement of services to families across Northeast Georgia; and19 WHEREAS, food insecurity impacts working families, seniors on fixed incomes, children20 who rely on school meal programs, and veterans who have bravely served our nation,21 underscoring the essential nature of food and the role it plays in both our humanity and22 ability to reach our individual and collective potential; and23 WHEREAS, the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia's commitment to strengthening local food24 systems also benefits Georgia's agricultural sector by sourcing fresh, locally grown produce25 and building farm-to-table initiatives that keep food local, sustainable, and accessible; and26 WHEREAS, ensuring Northeast Georgia families have access to a variety of food not only27 improves educational outcomes for children but also strengthens the workforce and increases28 economic independence, reinforcing the vital role of food security in our communities and29 the immeasurable impact of the family table; and30 WHEREAS, public-private investments in food security reflect Georgia's values of31 responsible government, strong families, and economic prosperity, as every dollar invested32 in hunger relief leverages taxpayer dollars into the Georgia economy while expanding33 grocery budgets when necessary.34 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that35 the members of this body commend the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia for its mission of36 connecting neighbors with nourishing food, its expansion to better serve families, and its37 H. R. 461 - 2 - 25 LC 112 3139 continued commitment to fighting food insecurity through innovative, community-driven 38 solutions.39 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the members of this body recognize the vital role food40 security plays in ensuring Georgia remains a place where every family has the opportunity41 to thrive and express their support for efforts that uphold the well-being of Georgia's42 families, veterans, seniors, and children.43 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized44 and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the45 Food Bank of Northeast Georgia.46 H. R. 461 - 3 -