Food Bank of North Alabama distributes 16.7 million pounds of food

The Food Bank of North Alabama distributed 16.7 million pounds of food during its most recent fiscal year, an increase of nearly 2 million pounds compared to the previous year. This volume provided approximately 14 million meals to the community.

CEO Shirley Schofield noted that the increased distribution reflects both growing community need and the efforts of local partners. The organization is facing challenges due to a roughly 30% decline in food received through the federal Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP).

To address the shortfall and rising grocery costs, the food bank has had to purchase more food directly. Increased donations from local grocery stores have helped offset some of these costs as the organization serves 11 counties in North Alabama.