Susan B. Moore Family Market
Every day, United Way of Central Alabama and our network of more than 80 partner agencies and programs impact individuals throughout our community. This story comes from the Community Food Bank of Central Alabama, an organization that works to feed people in need today and foster collaborative solutions to end hunger tomorrow by supplying millions of meals per year to over 200 food pantries, shelters and children’s programs.
The Family Market program is a partnership between Community Food Bank of Central Alabama and schools such as Susan B. Moore Elementary School in Blount County, Alabama. The program provides healthy food choices for the school’s families. After parents drop off their children at school, they can visit the Family Market for fresh fruits, vegetables, and more.
Thanks to Susan B. Moore Elementary School’s participation, the Food Bank has been able to distribute more than 90,000 lbs. of food to their community over the past two years! On Family Market days, a Food Bank delivery truck departs for the school early in the morning. Vice Principal Cornell Spradlin and local volunteers also gather early to meet the truck and begin preparations. They greet their guests with warmth and serve them with diligence. Mr. Spradlin believes that all of the school’s households in need should be served through the Family Market. No one should be left behind.
The Family Market addresses a hidden need that exists among many families. According to survey data, 95% of children who participated in the Weekenders Backpack program — another Food Bank school program — shared their Backpack food with their families. Through the creation of Family Markets, the Food Bank provides many additional healthy resources that will help families sustain a well-nourished home life.
The Susan B. Moore Elementary School Family Market allows Community Food Bank to join with friends in a small town as we make a difference in the lives of its families. The need is real, and it is everywhere; and we are so thankful for our supporters like Tyson Foods, Publix Super Markets Charities, and other community partners throughout Central Alabama who work with us every day in the fight to end hunger!
Through the creation of Family Markets, the Food Bank provides many additional healthy resources that will help families sustain a well-nourished home life.