Some people call this time of year “spooky season,” but at the Golden Harvest Food Bank, “It’ Spooky To Be Hungry” season.
In its 33rd year, the food drive runs the entire month of October.
Schools, churches and neighborhoods take part in fun events throughout the month. And it’s back in full swing after last year’s hurricane relief efforts collided with It’s Spooky to be Hungry.
“This year, we’re trying to get back to normal,” said Priscilla Elliott, the food bank’s public affairs specialist. “We’re giving our community the joy and hope that Spooky brings.”
Volunteers will be canvassing neighborhoods Saturday to place door hangers with information about Spooky. The flyers have QR codes specific to the neighborhood.
While the event is designed to raise money and collect food for those in need in the community, It’s Spooky to Be Hungry fosters a sense of camaraderie and community as neighbors, classmate or coworkers band together and in some cases compete with other groups to see who can raise the most.
Monetary donations can be made online here.
Some groups do in-person events such as haunted houses or hay rides to help with their efforts, Elliott said.
This year, the food bank has a goal of $400,000, which provides one million meals.
“Every October we are excited and honored that our neighbors join alongside us in ways that not only help put food on the tables of families experiencing food insecurity but also spark fun and creativity that inspire others to get involved,” said President & CEO Amy Breitmann in a news release. “This year, after Hurricane Helene, it feels especially meaningful to see our community come together and return to the traditions that make Spooky to Be Hungry such a special way to fight hunger.”
Other important dates are food drop off day on Oct. 25, the virtual donation deadline on Halloween and a spooky celebration and awards on Nov. 18.
Also, the We Give A Shirt Campaign has one just for Spooky to be Hungry. Go here for more information.
Golden Harvest Food Bank provides food to more than 325 partner agencies in 24 counties and serve the hungry directly through its programs such as the Master’s Table, children’s backpack program, senior food box and senior market.
Charmain Z. Brackett, the publisher of Augusta Good News and Inspiring: Women of Augusta, has covered Augusta’s news for more than 35 years. She’s won multiple Georgia Press Association awards, is the recipient of the 2018 Greater Augusta Arts Council’s media award and was named Augusta Magazine’s best local writer in 2024 and 2025. Reach her at charmain@augustagoodnews.com. Sign up for the newsletter here.
