A $350,000 investment will help Food Bank of North Alabama improve how it collects and distributes food across North Alabama.
Publix Charities awarded two grants that will pay for a vehicle to pick up grocery store donations, a new bar-coding system at the food bank’s Huntsville distribution center and other equipment.
Food Bank of North Alabama serves 206,820 people experiencing food insecurity across 10 counties: Colbert, DeKalb, Franklin, Jackson, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Limestone, Madison, Marshall and Morgan.
Nearly 60,000 children in those communities also experience food insecurity.
New equipment will help streamline operations and allow the food bank to handle food donations and distribution more efficiently as demand for assistance continues across the region.
“As a food retailer, we believe our greatest opportunity to give back is helping feed our neighbors in need — a responsibility we take to heart,” said Publix CEO Kevin Murphy. “We are grateful to Publix Charities for its generous support and working with food banks throughout the Southeast to provide nourishment to our communities.”
Publix Charities is donating $25 million in 2026 to Feeding America partner food banks and other nonprofit organizations for hunger-related efforts.
Food Bank of North Alabama CEO Shirley Schofield said support from corporate partners helps organizations like hers keep up with local needs.
“We would love to see fewer people experience food insecurity, however we are so grateful for corporate partners like Publix Charities who step up in times like this to meet the need,” Schofield said. “They understand that people are at their best when they don’t have to stress about where their next meal will come from, and that our community is at its best when people aren’t going hungry.”
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