New Birth Missionary Baptist Church to give away free groceries Oct. 4 amid federal shutdowns

STONECREST, GA– As the federal government shutdown stretches on, thousands of furloughed workers and families nationwide are facing immediate financial strain. In response, The King’s Table at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church is intensifying its fight against food insecurity by providing essential groceries to 1,000 families this Saturday, Oct. 4, beginning at 9 a.m. at 6400 Woodrow Road in Stonecrest, GA.

The drive-thru distribution will include fresh produce, protein, and pantry staples to help provide critical relief at a time when missed paychecks, rising grocery costs, and national uncertainty are compounding the pressures households already face.

“Federal workers and contractors, who represent many of our neighbors, family members, and church members, are struggling through no fault of their own,” said New Birth Senior Pastor Dr. Jamal Bryant. “A government shutdown doesn’t stop rent from being due, utilities from coming in, or families from needing food on the table. The King’s Table exists to help bridge that gap when families are caught between politics and survival.”

Since its founding during the COVID-19 pandemic, The King’s Table has grown into a full-scale 501(c)(3) nonprofit, distributing nearly 2 million meals to families across the region. The ministry continues its regular schedule of serving on the first and third Saturday of every month from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., powered by volunteers, community members, and local partners dedicated to fighting hunger.

“The shutdown has created ripple effects far beyond Washington that is hitting kitchen tables here in Georgia,” said Pastor Carla Stokes, Outreach Pastor at New Birth. “For families missing paychecks or forced to make tough choices between gas, medicine, and food, we want them to know they’re not alone. The King’s Table is here to stand in the gap.”