By Jordan Calhoun
As COVID-19 ravaged the nation and left many people in dire need, individuals in Coffee County decided that the time had come to create a central resource for food distribution in our community.
The Coffee County Food Bank is a 5013(c) organization that strives to be the hands and feet of Christ by nourishing people’s bodies and souls. This organization began as a vision of three individuals that saw a need in our area and wanted to step in the gap by collaborating with local churches and volunteers. In considering how best to serve the community, they began to pray about establishing a centrally located resource to address the need for food. After their mission became clear, God was faithful to provide a spacious, prominent building within the Douglas City limits and a part-time staff member to aid in the organization and consistent distribution of food boxes.
The Food Bank has been operating since early June and is open three days a week: Monday from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM, Wednesday from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, and Friday from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM. Individuals can get a food box from the CCFB once a month, and the contents of the box is determined by USDA guidelines and the number of children/persons in the home. Boxes are distributed through a drive-thru system, and each car is greeted with smiling eyes and willing hands that are happy to serve them.
The CCFB is funded strictly through the generosity of community members. In addition to monetary donations received, the Food Bank has seen people give sacrificially of their time to ensure that food is received and organized, boxes are packed, and the beneficiaries of the bank leave encouraged and fed. The CCFB has experienced resounding community support, and often receives fresh donations from local farmers and businesses who are opening their hands to those who need a hand-up.
After a visit to the Food Bank, you are certain to leave with enough food to stock your pantry, but you will also leave with a new friend. With every food box, a bible, gospel tract, and a word of encouragement are shared. The conversations that begin in the drive-thru line carry through to the next pick-up and beyond. Volunteers are encouraged to write and mail notes, make phone calls, and pray for each person they meet during their shift.
As awareness of the Coffee County Food Bank grows, the organizers continue to express that the effort is FOR Christ and FROM Christ. In fact, they say that the mission to introduce people to the love of Jesus through providing for a basic need is the only thing separating them from a grocery store.
If you would like to learn more about how to give, volunteer, or receive assistance from the Coffee County Food Bank, please visit http://www.coffeecountyfoodbank.org or “like” them on Facebook. You can also make plans to visit during operating hours at +GA+31533/@31.5013775,-82.8590628,17z/data=!4m8!4m7!1m0!1m5!1m1!1s0x88f02b99116e5619:0x69396c827a909e10!2m2!1d-82.8568688!2d31.5013775″>611 West Baker Hwy, Douglas, GA 31533.