What should I know about food programs in Georgia?

Contents

• What food programs are available in Georgia?
• What are my rights and responsibilities?

What food programs are available in Georgia?

In addition to food stamps, there are other food programs for low-income people in Georgia. Some food programs you might be eligible for include:

• Food Commodity Programs: Food commodity programs provide food products to low-income people. Georgia has two:

  • The Commodity Supplemental Food Program. This program serves low-income seniors in Georgia. Two food banks distribute food through this program: 

    • the Atlanta Community Food Bank and

    • the Second Harvest Food Bank of South Georgia

  • The Emergency Food Assistance Program. This is a program for all low-income people in Georgia. It provides them with emergency food and nutrition assistance at no cost. This program is run through local food banks.

• Child Nutrition Programs: There are a number of programs to help feed low-income children.

  • National School Breakfast and Lunch Program. This program provides low-cost or free breakfasts and lunches to children at school.

  • Summer Food Service Program: This program provides free meals to kids and teens in low-income areas over the summer.

  • Child and Adult Care Food Program: This program provides meals and snacks to eligible children and adults in: 

    • daycare centers, 

    • daycare homes, 

    • afterschool programs, and 

    • adult daycare centers. 

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What are my rights and responsibilities?

You have the right not to be discriminated against. If want help from a food program, you cannot be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age. You have the right to file a complaint of discrimination with the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

You are responsible for seeking out assistance from most food programs. You may be asked to provide proof of eligibility (income, etc.). 

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Contents

• How can I apply for the National School Breakfast and Lunch Program?
• How can I find Summer Food and Child and Adult Care Food programs in my area?

How can I apply for the National School Breakfast and Lunch Program?

Apply for the school meal programs directly through your child’s school. If you get SNAP benefits, your child automatically qualifies for free school meals. 

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How can I find Summer Food and Child and Adult Care Food programs in my area?

You can find summer meal and child and adult care food providers in your community on the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning website.

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