FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New Life Community Alliance
Contact: Michael Bryant, CEO
Phone: 770-570-0354
Email: mbryant@nlca-atl.org
NLCA Launches Emergency “Fill the SNAP Gap” Relief Fund Amid Government Shutdown
South DeKalb’s Largest Food Pantry Responds to SNAP Crisis with Urgent Appeal for Donations
Atlanta, GA (October 31, 2025) — As the federal government enters the longest shutdown in U.S. history, the October 31 deadline has placed critical food assistance on indefinite hold for more than 1.4 million Georgians. In response, New Life Community Alliance (NLCA), South DeKalb’s largest food pantry, has launched a SNAP Gap Emergency Relief Fund to provide immediate hunger relief for families impacted by the suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
SNAP cuts, set to begin November 1, could impact more than 900,000 children across Georgia – nearly half of all SNAP recipients statewide. Nationally, over 38% of SNAP households are working families. In Georgia alone, nearly 11% of employed adults have experienced food insecurity, with the hardest-hit communities concentrated in South DeKalb.
“In times of crisis, we don’t wait. We act,” said Michael Bryant, CEO of NLCA. “Our neighbors are bracing for empty shelves and empty stomachs. Whether or not a deal is reached in Washington, the threat has already deepened food insecurity for thousands. We’re here to stand in the gap.”
Food Distribution Hours:
Tuesday – Friday: 10 a.m. – noon
Saturday: 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Location: New Life Community Alliance, 3592 Flat Shoals Road, Decatur, GA 30034
For more than 23 years, NLCA has been a trusted partner in food relief and community support, providing daily grocery boxes, hot meals, and case management services to residents across DeKalb County. In 2024 alone, NLCA distributed over 890,000 pounds of food – serving more than 66,000 meals and helping over 64,000 individuals including seniors, children, and working adults.
Help is needed immediately. The community is invited to support NLCA’s Fill the SNAP Gap initiative in two ways:
- Give Financially: Donations directly fund food purchases and expanded distribution efforts. Click here to give.
- Give Food: Community members can drop off non-perishable items in the blue bins between 9 a.m. and 4p.m. Monday – Saturday located at NLCA’s Administration Building at 3592 Flat Shoals Road, Decatur, GA 30034.
This announcement comes just days before NLCA will dedicate its newly expanded commercial kitchen on Sunday, November 3, a move that will double its meal capacity from 300-400 per week to more than 800.
“It’s bittersweet to open our new kitchen during a moment like this,” says Bryant. “We built it for long-term community need – and now, that need is knocking louder than ever.”
Regardless of whether the federal government resolves the shutdown in time, NLCA remains committed to food distribution and hunger relief across metro Atlanta.
About New Life Community Alliance (NLCA)
New Life Community Alliance (NLCA) exists to erase the legacy of poverty in South DeKalb and Greater Atlanta neighborhoods by revitalizing them into thriving, safe, and economically prosperous communities for new and legacy residents.
With over two decades of deep-rooted service, NLCA delivers daily impact – from food distribution and dignity services like grooming and clothing, to housing support, educational programming, and job assistance. In 2024 alone, NLCA provided groceries to more than 66,000 individuals, distributed 27 tons of clothing, helped more than 170 families avoid homelessness, and supported over 2,300 people through employment services.
To learn more or get involved, visit www.nlca-atl.org.
Volunteer at the Garments of Grace Clothing Store and continue the legacy of helping our neighbors with grace and dignity.
