Today Georgia United Foundation, the charitable giving arm of Georgia United Credit Union, kicks off its twelfth Can Hunger program, the organization’s annual donation drive benefiting local food banks. 

Since its inception, Can Hunger has been responsible for collecting more than 477,000 items for local food banks in the communities that Georgia United serves. But the campaign’s approach has now shifted to focus on monetary donations. Monetary donations are more impactful because food banks can harness the power of bulk purchasing and also respond faster to fulfil specific needs for in-demand items. 

This year’s Can Hunger goal is to raise more than $5,000 in monetary donations. The drive runs through October 3. Secure online donations can be made using a debit or credit card via gucufoundation.org/canhunger. Donations can also be made at any of Georgia United’s 13 branch locations.  

Last year’s Can Hunger drive provided more than 28,000 meals for families, children and seniors in need. 

“Giving as little as $10 can provide up to 40 meals for people that are struggling to fill their plates with nutritional options,” said Georgia United’s Director of Community Development Kim Wall. “Combatting food insecurity is part of Georgia United Foundation’s commitment to improving the quality of life for children and families in the communities we serve. Generous donations to Can Hunger will make a difference for a senior who is facing a difficult decision whether to pay for a medication or healthy food, or for hardworking parents who might choose to skip a meal to make sure their children are fed.” 

The foundation is partnering with 11 local food pantries for 2023’s Can Hunger: Atlanta Community Food Bank, Food Bank of NE Georgia, Good Neighbors Homeless Shelter, CarePointe Ministries, Rockdale Emergency Relief, Sharing and Caring Food Bank, The Place at Forsyth, Dalton Greater Works, Laurens Baptist Association Food Bank, Helping in His Name Ministries and NETWorks Tucker.