APS CARES about every student and their family! To further ensure that APS families have access to food resources, Atlanta Public Schools has compiled a list of organizations providing food assistance to people living in the Atlanta area. In addition to the resource guide, APS also hosts a food distribution drive on the last Monday of each month at the APS Student and Family Support Hub, 601 Thomas Cole Jr. Way, SW Atlanta, GA 30314. Please note we have expanded the food distribution drive for the month of November and will host the December drive on Monday, December 15, due to the holiday break. 

• Organize School-Wide Food Drives: Coordinate monthly or seasonal food drives where students, families, and staff can bring in non-perishable items. Partner with local food banks (like the Atlanta Community Food Bank) for easy pickup and distribution.
• Host a “Can-Drive Challenge”: Encourage friendly competition between classes or grade levels to collect canned goods. Offer small rewards (like a pizza party or spirit day) to the class that collects the most donations.
• Set Up a “Pantry in the School”: Create a small on-campus pantry stocked with shelf-stable food, hygiene products, and school supplies for families who need immediate assistance.
• Fundraise for Food Security: Use bake sales, spirit nights, fun runs, or crowdfunding platforms to raise funds for local food banks or the APS Family Support Hub. Even small donations go a long way toward providing fresh produce and meals.
• Partner With Local Businesses: Ask local grocery stores, restaurants, and farmers’ markets to donate items or sponsor food drive bins. Many businesses are eager to support schools.
• Promote Awareness in Newsletters & Events: Share success stories, total pounds collected, or photos from food drives to motivate participation and build a culture of giving.

• School-Based Volunteer Ride Network: Partner with PTA groups or parent volunteers to help families get rides to nearby food pickup points or pantries.
• Community Shuttle Programs: Some centers, like the YMCA of Metro Atlanta, offer shuttle or carpool programs for families