The CFB Story

In 1982, a small group of committed volunteers worked side by side with the United Way of central Alabama and the Greater Birmingham Foundation to open the Community Food Bank’s doors. In our early years, we focused solely on feeding neighbors in need of emergency food. In 2016, our Board of Directors took the bold step to broaden our mission and also address hunger’s root causes. Now we take a two-pronged approach to solving hunger.

We accomplish this mission by supplying millions of meals per year to over 230 Partner Agencies, like food pantries, shelters, and children’s programs in 12 counties across central Alabama. Our aim is to ensure people in need can access emergency food near where they live. Rather than duplicate services in communities, we partner with and enable local agencies to reach more people. When agencies partner with us, they have consistent access to fresh food that they distribute free of charge. When we identify a gap in this network that leaves specific populations vulnerable to hunger, we operate direct meal programs. For example, we provide fresh produce and groceries to seniors, children at risk of hunger during school breaks, patients facing chronic illness, first-time mothers, and others in need. For easy access, we deliver to key locations like schools, senior housing facilities, medical clinics, and more.

The Community Food Bank also incubates social enterprises that promote nutrition, prevent wholesome food from going to waste, and tests new initiatives that go beyond charity to create healthy food access for all.

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