Where to Donate Food in Atlanta: A Guide to Making a Real Difference

Top Places to Donate Food in Atlanta

Here are some of the best local Atlanta organizations that accept food donations — from nonperishable items to fresh, surplus food.

1. Atlanta Community Food Bank

• What they do: The Atlanta Community Food Bank (ACFB) is one of the largest hunger-relief organizations in the region, supporting more than 700 partner agencies in Metro Atlanta and North Georgia. Atlanta Community Food Bank+2Atlanta Community Food Bank+2
• Where to donate: Their main warehouse location at 3400 North Desert Drive, Atlanta, accepts food drive drop-offs. Atlanta Community Food Bank
• When to drop off: According to their FAQs, donation hours are Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Atlanta Community Food Bank
• What helps most: Nonperishables are always useful; monetary donations are also powerful — ACFB estimates $1 provides up to 3 meals. Atlanta Community Food Bank+1

2. Second Helpings Atlanta

• What they do: Second Helpings Atlanta rescues surplus food (from grocery stores, restaurants, schools, etc.) and delivers it to local partner agencies. Second Helpings Atlanta
• Where to donate: If you represent a business or organization with extra food (produce, dairy, meals, etc.), you can become a food donor. Second Helpings Atlanta
• Volunteer role: Individuals can also volunteer to helps transport the rescued food. Second Helpings Atlanta
• Food safety: They provide guidance on what to donate (fresh produce, frozen meals, unopened goods) and what not to (opened packaging, expired food). Second Helpings Atlanta

3. Fountain of Hope (Atlanta)

• What they do: Fountain of Hope runs a food distribution program, including the “Giving Table” — providing ready-to-eat foods — and food boxes for families in need. FOH Food Bank+1
• Where to donate: Their programs support churches and community organizations; they invite food donations and volunteer help with their distribution efforts. FOH Food Bank

4. Food Well Alliance

• What they do: This organization supports urban farms, community gardens, and food-growing initiatives across Metro Atlanta, strengthening local food systems. Food Well Alliance
• How to help: You can donate money, volunteer, or support their network of community gardens. Food Well Alliance
• Why it matters: By giving to Food Well Alliance, you're helping promote sustainable food access, not just immediate food relief.

5. The Sandwich Project

• What they do: The Sandwich Project is a volunteer-led nonprofit that assembles fresh, homemade sandwiches each week to help feed hungry Atlantans. The Sandwich Project
• How to contribute: You can host a sandwich-making event, volunteer as a driver, or donate ingredients. The Sandwich Project
• Drop-off locations: When you sign up, they’ll send you the most up-to-date drop-off sites for sandwiches in Metro Atlanta.

6. The Salvation Army – Metro Atlanta

• What they do: The Salvation Army’s Financial Emergency Services Centers in Metro Atlanta accept food donations to distribute groceries and emergency food to local families. The Salvation Army USA
• What to donate: They request nonperishable items like rice, pasta, beans, peanut butter, breakfast bars, and baby food. The Salvation Army USA
• How to give: Locate your nearest center via their website, check drop-off hours, and deliver food in person. The Salvation Army USA

7. Local Community Fridges (e.g., Free99 Fridge)

• While not all community fridges may be formally organized nonprofits, they serve as grassroots food-sharing hubs.
• Example: The Free99 Fridge network has had several sites in Atlanta. Wikipedia
• How to donate: If you have extra shelf-stable food or certain safe perishable items, check with the individual fridge’s guidelines before dropping off.

Tips for Donating Food Effectively

• Check expiration dates: Only donate food that’s within its use-by date and still safe to eat.
• Stick to shelf-stable goods: Items like canned beans, cereal, rice, pasta, peanut butter, and low-sodium soups are especially helpful.
• Package safely: Make sure food is sealed, unspoiled, and in its original packaging when possible.
• Call ahead: For food banks or pantries, confirm drop-off hours before driving over.
• Consider monetary support: Many food banks, like ACFB, can stretch your dollar much farther with purchasing power. Atlanta Community Food Bank+1

How DonateAtlanta.org Helps You Donate Smart

At DonateAtlanta.org, we curate a list of vetted, trustworthy Atlanta-based nonprofits — including food programs — so you can give with confidence. Here’s how we make your giving easier:

• We highlight local food organizations that are verified and active in Metro Atlanta.
• We point you to high-impact food banks, rescue organizations, and community food programs.
• We share contact information, donation instructions, and specific needs for each charity.
• You can both donate food items and support via monetary giving with guidance from our platform.

Ready to Donate Food in Atlanta?

If you want to help feed your neighbors in need, here’s how to get started:

• Visit DonateAtlanta.org — Browse our directory to find food-related nonprofits near you.
• Pick a cause or organization — Choose a food bank, rescue program, or community garden that aligns with your values.
• Donate food or funds — Use the organization’s drop-off details or donate online.
• Invite others — Encourage your workplace, faith community, or friend group to host a food drive for Atlanta organizations.

By giving food locally, you’re helping support your community in a tangible way. Whether it’s bringing canned goods to a food pantry or partnering with a food rescue program, your contribution matters. Donate wisely — and make your impact count in Atlanta.