SAVANNAH, Ga. - GeorgiaChron -- (SAVANNAH, GA) – Healthy Savannah is calling on residents, faith communities and local businesses to donate healthy, non-perishable foods to area food pantries during this holiday season, but also throughout the entire year. As food insecurity continues to affect thousands of families in Coastal Georgia, Healthy Savannah emphasizes the critical need for nutritious options to support community health, particularly as government funding for food assistance remains uncertain.

Ongoing challenges with federal funding for programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and other food assistance initiatives have placed additional strain on local food banks and pantries. These programs are vital lifelines for many families, and when resources are cut or delayed, community support becomes even more crucial.

Turner says healthy food donations help fill empty stomachs but also support better health outcomes. Nutritious foods can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. For children, access to healthy food is essential for physical development, academic performance, and overall well-being.

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Top 10 Healthy Foods to Donate

• Canned vegetables (low-sodium)
• Canned fruit (in juice or water, not syrup)
• Dried or canned beans and lentils
• Brown rice and whole grain pasta
• Oats and whole grain cereals (low-sugar)
• Peanut butter and other nut butters
• Canned tuna, salmon, or chicken (in water)
• Shelf-stable milk or milk alternatives
• Unsalted nuts and seeds
• Cooking essentials like olive oil

Healthy Savannah has compiled these local and statewide resources to help those affected by food insecurity:

Statewide Resources

• Food Finder US: Visit foodfinder.us to locate nearby pantries and meal programs.
• Instacart: 50% off your next grocery order if you used a SNAP/EBT card in October (discount applies automatically in November).
• DoorDash: Use code SNAPDD for free delivery and service fees on one grocery order from select SNAP-enabled stores (Nov 1–30, 2025).

Local Resources

• Second Harvest Food Bank: Increasing donations to meet community needs.
• Forsyth Farmers' Market: Accepts existing SNAP tokens and offers fresh produce every Saturday, 9 AM–1 PM, at Forsyth Park.
• Emmaus House: 18 Abercorn St. – Bag Day Fridays 8:30–9 AM; Breakfast Mon–Fri 8:30–10 AM.
• Mas Paz Counseling Center: 216 E 41st St. – Food donation bin available nightly.
• Additional support available through: Armor of God (912-656-3774), Catholic Charities (912-233-1877), Ceceline Blake Foundation, Chevis Oak Baptist Church, Christ Memorial Baptist Church, and City Church.

Savannah Feed the Hungry Giveaways

• Nov 15, 11 AM–3 PM – Johnson High School
• Nov 16 – David's Crabhouse (time TBA)
• Nov 22, 9 AM – Carver Village
• Nov 25, 4 PM – John S. Delaware Center

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