GMFB Agency Newsletter

GMFB July Closures:

GMFB will be closed on Friday, July 4th in observance of Independence Day. Enjoy!

Best Practices for Invoice and Statement Payments



Just a reminder: While your agency may receive multiple invoices throughout the month, Georgia Mountain Food Bank (GMFB) recommends waiting to receive the monthly statement and paying the statement balance. The statement will list each invoice number for your reference.

When submitting payment, please include the invoice numbers in the memo section of your check. Paying the full statement balance each month helps reduce the risk of missing a payment.

If you prefer to pay each invoice individually, please make it a habit to review the monthly statement to ensure your account reflects an accurate balance.

Thank you for your attention to this process!

I was born and raised in Gainesville, GA, and have lived here my entire life with no plans of moving anytime soon. I come from a large family as one of six siblings, so I understand the dynamics and challenges that come with it. I am now married and have two children, Axl (7) and Zoe (3). My husband is originally from Uganda and has lived in the United States for over 25 years. We’ve been together for over nine years. I was drawn to the food bank when a job opportunity arose that felt meaningful and purposeful. After much prayer and consideration, I decided to pursue it. In my free time, I enjoy reading—when I can find the time—and Jane Austen is one of my favorite authors. One thing that most people don’t know about me is that I’m a closet Korean drama watcher—I really enjoy them!

Jackie Powers

Hall County Advisory Council Member:

We are in this Together



Last year, I was invited to join the GMFB Advisory Council. I’ll admit—I wondered what that would mean. What would my role be? Would my voice really make a difference? And honestly, how could I possibly make time for one more commitment?

But from that very first meeting, my perspective began to change. I started learning more about GMFB and the depth of our partnership. I discovered so many others across our community who share in this mission to feed our neighbors. I made meaningful connections and, most importantly, I realized—we’re not alone.

Some days, it can feel like we are. In a world full of need and hurt, it’s easy to feel isolated. But being part of this council has reminded me that we are united in purpose. Each of our pantries may operate differently—with unique layouts, hours, or leadership—but at the heart of it all, our mission is the same: to feed our neighbors.

There is nothing more fulfilling than witnessing the joy on a mother’s face as she receives food for her children. The simple gift of a smile or a hug in gratitude—that’s what keeps us going.

In times of challenge and uncertainty, I’m reminded of the simple but powerful words: You’ve got this! To GMFB and all of the incredible partners—thank you. Thank you for your unwavering dedication to serving our neighbors. We truly are in this together!

We Appreciate You!

Starting the week of July 11, GMFB will show appreciation to our partner agencies by randomly selecting one agency each week to receive the #1 pick order slot.

How it works:

• Every Thursday (before inventory is released), we’ll randomly select one agency and notify them via email. The email will include a preview of that week’s inventory.
• To secure the top pick slot, the selected agency must submit their order to the orders email BEFORE inventory goes out on Friday.
• IF the order is submitted late, the agency will forfeit the first pick.
• We hope this adds a bit of fun, benefit, and a heartfelt thank-you to our valued partners!

Graceworks Opens to Empower the Local Workforce

This month, Ministries of Grace celebrates the official launch of Graceworks, a workforce and education development center designed to help individuals across our community take the next step toward employment, stability, and long-term success.

As the newest initiative under the Ministries of Grace umbrella—alongside Meals by Grace and Grace Cares—Graceworks represents a powerful expansion of our mission to serve people holistically. Through career readiness programs, digital skills training, one-on-one coaching, and employer connections, Graceworks equips individuals with both the tools and the confidence to move forward.



Whether someone is returning to work, building new skills, or seeking support during a life transition, Graceworks provides a personalized pathway forward.

Our Grand Opening is a celebration of possibility—proof that when community and compassion meet, real transformation begins. We’re proud to open our doors to neighbors, partners, and employers who share a vision for a stronger, more empowered workforce.

Graceworks is more than a program. It’s a launchpad for growth, purpose, and opportunity—for all. 

Encouraging Fellow Agencies to Post to Our Partner Connect Facebook Group:

By posting an uplifting or celebratory story your agency has experienced to the Group page, you will be entered into a drawing for a Gift Basket!!

• Post should include story and pictures

• Posts should be made between July1st and July 31st to be entered into drawing



• Winner will be announced August 1, 2025

Join the GMFB Partner Agency Facebook Group!

Agency Anniversaries

Thank you for your partnership! You are AMAZING!



Meals by Grace- 12 years with GMFB

Rescate 2000 - 14 years with GMFB

Idea Corner:

Shout Out to Our Seniors Making a Difference!

At 82 years old, Ernie Martel is showing us that you’re never too old to make an impact. In this inspiring news story, Ernie set up a “Little Food Pantry” in his Northland neighborhood, offering free food to those in need—especially fellow seniors. His simple act of kindness is making a big difference and serves as a beautiful reminder of the power of community.

Let Ernie’s story inspire all of us to look around and see who in our own neighborhoods might want to join the mission to fight hunger. Sometimes the most unexpected heroes are right next door.

SNAP Benefits Assistance Available Through GMFB

If you would like more information or would like to schedule a time for Araceli to be present at your distribution, please email her at araceli@gmfb.org.

Oasis Insight is the leading client intake and reporting solution for food banks and their partner agencies. Easily manage agency monthly feeding reports, and much more.